Ms. Kyung's medical journey began in her early 20s with a diagnosis of end-stage renal failure, necessitating years of hemodialysis. Her first kidney transplant in 1999 offered hope for a healthier life, but seven years later, the transplanted kidney's function declined, forcing her back to dialysis.
Re-transplantation posed significant challenges due to high sensitization, a condition where antibodies develop against the transplanted kidney, complicating subsequent procedures. Ms. Kyung faced seven delays in re-transplantation due to these antibodies, testing her resilience.
Despite grappling with depression amid prolonged waiting and repeated setbacks, Ms. Kyung found solace in knitting. She crafted hats, vests, and gloves for her nieces and nephews, and even made a tablecloth for her mother's birthday, channeling creativity to endure long hours of dialysis. The medical team at Seoul St. Mary's Hospital supported her by meticulously analyzing her antibodies and encouraging her to await the optimal transplant opportunity.
In April this year, a breakthrough arrived: Ms. Kyung was matched with a kidney from a brain-dead donor with compatible tissue typing. Pre-transplant treatments, such as antibody-suppressing injections to reduce the risk of rejection, paved the way for a successful surgery. She was discharged two weeks later in stable condition. Three months after the transplant, her kidney function remains stable, with no signs of rejection or complications.
Dr. Byung Ha Chung, a nephrologist at Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, praised Ms. Kyung's perseverance: "Long-term dialysis patients often face complications like vascular calcification, which can jeopardize transplant eligibility. Ms. Kyung's disciplined diet and self-care were critical to seizing this opportunity." He also extended gratitude to the brain-dead donor and their family, stating, "Their gift of life offers hope to many patients awaiting transplants."
Lim Hye Jung, HEALTH IN NEWS TEAM
press@hinews.co.kr
