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Since our teams formed in late May, our first Kidney Companion received the call in September that there was a kidney ready for him in Ann Arbor. His Kidney Companions team went right into action, driving him safely in the middle of the night to Ann Arbor to be ready for surgery in the morning. Surgery was a great success and he has a beautifully functioning kidney. He had his team with him constantly for that first week post-transplant and they have driven him back to Ann Arbor many more times for weekly follow-up appointments. They continue to reveal humanity at its finest by showing up to this day for the patient. He also has had support from other community members in bringing by meals and inviting him to their home for a holiday turkey. This has been an incredible learning curve. Along the way, the team identified more areas of support needed. When a person goes to a dialysis center 3 days a week for 6 years, and then never again, there is a new re-settling period. We have contacted generous local businesses who are offering their services to ease a part of this transition, like Orchard Cleaning Services. It all reveals the critical need for support in all of us. The team has plenty more stories — be sure to look for our next monthly get-together with current volunteers over a beer, coffee, or drink of your choice for all who are interested in learning more about Kidney Companions. Congratulations to the first Kidney Companions team!!
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