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When James McGuire was told he would receive a liver transplant in 1990, he didn't have time to prepare for surgery and he did not know any other transplant recipients to call on for support. Today, McGuire lends his experience to help other transplant recipients. "Everyone's scared," he points out. But, fortunately, those awaiting a transplant operation can find many sources of information. The transplant road is now well mapped and often traveled. Some recipients say the experience is similar to venturing into a foreign country with surgeons and nurses speaking their own language. If you were to visit another country, you would most probably try to learn the language and make some plans before stepping onto the plane. Likewise, before starting your transplant journey, there are six key "traveling tips" to help you know what to expect and enjoy an easier road to recovery.

Do Your Homework
If you are facing an organ transplant, become as educated as possible and use all available resources. Your transplant team will provide information about all aspects of the transplant process. At Lahey Clinic Medical Center in Burlington, Massachusetts, the transplant team begins seminars as soon as the patient is evaluated. According to Liver Transplant Social Worker Eric Richman, MSW, LICSW, the seminars cover everything from organ anatomy, surgery and recovery, to lifestyle changes and emotional issues. You can also receive practical information from Internet sites, such as Transplant Living (www.patients.unos.org), and journals, including LifeTIMES.

It's also wise to ask questions. Establish open communications with your transplant team, advises Leigh Ann Bernsteil, RN, BSN, kidney/ pancreas transplant coordinator at Piedmont Hospital in Atlanta. Keep a list of your questions and bring them to meetings with your transplant team. "Don't be afraid to tell your team of any changes in your medical condition," cautions Bernsteil. The team will help you with the changes.

You can contact a support group through your transplant center or Transplant Recipients International Organization (TRIO) at 800-TRIO-386 (800-874-6386).

Bring someone you love. If you are awaiting a transplant, don't exclude your family and friends! Generally, not enough family members are involved in the transplant process. And those who are involved are often surprised by how stressful the transplant experience is, for both the patient and family. If possible, you should try to bring at least one family member to all seminars and team meetings.

Also, review your policies for any factors that may prevent full coverage for transplantation. Prior to your operation, you should secure two important legal documents: a living will and durable power of attorney. Should you become unable to make decisions for yourself, the living will states your desires concerning your medical care. With a durable power of attorney, you appoint someone who can speak on your behalf, should you become unable to do so. Many healthcare providers offer do-it-yourself guides for producing these documents. You can also contact an attorney or online legal service. For more information about these documents, call AARP at 800-424-3410 or visit the Web site www.aarp.org.

Get into training. Before your surgery, you should be in the best possible condition, physically and emotionally. According to Conway, you can accomplish this through good nutrition and the appropriate exercise. "Even walking can make a big difference on your recovery," says Bernsteil. "And quit smoking! Improved breathing has a big impact on recovery." For psychosocial support, talk to social workers and support groups.

When preparing for your hospital stay, relaxation is the key. Richman says that relaxed patients are known to respond better to treatment. For your hospital stay, pack anything that will calm you: peaceful music and a Walkman, comfy pajamas, pictures of loved ones.

For a successful recovery, it is essential that you develop a recovery plan before surgery. Identify all responsibilities that, during the first weeks at home, you will not be able to do. Who will drive you to checkups and the supermarket? Who will carry the laundry baskets? Who will care for your children and prepare meals? Take the time to think about all of the things you normally do and then select a specific person to handle each chore.

Know that the first weeks and months of your recovery will be very busy and difficult, with checkups, medication changes and, possibly, readmission. McGuire described his recovery as "a hole you can't get out of ... but the hole gets smaller and, before you know it, you're sort of normal. It's a long road but it will get better." Miller warns that donors often feel worse after surgery, because they are generally healthy beforehand.

Again, your transplant team can help both donors and recipients know what to expect during the recovery period.

Most patients don't realize how emotional the transplant experience is going to be. Recognize that you and your family may face very strong emotions and difficult issues. Rely on your transplant team and support groups for guidance. And remember - think positively!

According to Bernsteil, it's important to continue your life while waiting for your transplant. "Don't be afraid to leave home and your telephone," she advises.

Always be within a few hours of the transplant center, but don't miss out on important events in your life. "It's not a one-shot, one-call opportunity," explains Bernsteil. "Get out and continue to live."

The road to a transplant can seem foreign and intimidating. But, with the right planning, you can demystify the trip as much as possible. "There's always a little surprise," says Conway. "But, for the majority, the trip is a positive one."

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