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  • One-on-One Sessions | RELIVE Organization | Liver Transplant Support

    All Sessions are free and take place online via Zoom. We respect your privacy and your right to confidentiality is of utmost importance to us. Any information shared or discussed in these sessions is strictly confidential. ONE-ON-ONE SESSIONS All RELIVE Sessions are free and take place online via Zoom. Please click 'Join Us' if you're interested in individual sessions. We respect your privacy and your right to confidentiality is of utmost importance to us. Any information shared or discussed in these sessions is strictly confidential. One-on-One Sessions JOIN US Free counseling sessions for anyone, particularly patients with alcoholism and addiction issues. These sessions can be singular or ongoing. This can be especially useful for those less comfortable in a group setting. The primary focus being the stability, growth and developing adaptivity of mental and spiritual health. That the attendee feels heard with empathy and connection is of vital importance; it opens the door to adoption of proactive advice. From this, an earnest joy may be found in the pursuit of accountability, self-care and love. Patients respond beautifully and it is a privilege to observe and encourage such marked blossoming.

  • Founding Donors | RELIVE Organization | Liver Transplant Support

    Without these wonderful people, none of this would be possible. The bedrock of our organization, we are forever humbled and grateful. You shape and guide our purpose, like a true arrow in flight set on its target. OUR FOUNDING DONORS Without these wonderful people, none of this would be possible. The bedrock of our organization, we are forever humbled and grateful. You shape and guide our purpose, like a true arrow in flight set on its target. Thank you for your generosity and support . Anne Howorth Kathie Caballero Roslin Atley Yang Jin Yun Duri & Deborah Arquisch Charles Hogg Jennifer Pizzuti Matt & Jenn Walker Patricia & Guy Horanberg MaryAnn & Keats Irvine Earlene Davis & Milton Barcos Ellen Shiau Lynnette Jenkins John & Taryn Soto Jenny Doh Scott McNutt Trish Morris-Thompson Viviana Luna David Montano Karun & Pallavi Sharma Ray Acosta Louise Lesher KellyAnn & San Solaegui Ana & Roman Martinez Kevin & Glenda Navin Tracy Sabol Vanessa Altamirano & Alex Carrillo Lisa Walter Terrie Mckinley Latisha Longoria Melanie Thomas Michelle Gerson Mary Postler Eileen Postler Lori Walker Christina Hunter Nora Moore Lucas Moore Allison Miller Toni Gummow Linda Jensen Dale Giesige Rosalia Fisher Paula Holland Lisa Frey Victoria Scotti Laura Bayliss Ashley Loudan Kerry Borst Leyla Ostovar Bill & Gail Cohen Matthew Brajkovich Jeanie & Kirwin Ford Manley Ford Tamra Ford Guy Ford Scott Webb Graeme McGaw Susan Howell Jason & Catherine DuBois Rosemary Falkenhainer Regina Wolf Laurel Mahaney Alessio, Martina & Milo Giusti Paul Blunt Nicole Muccigrosso Simone Kowalski Sara Pendleton Benjamin Osgood Grayson Elbrecht Jason Heberlein Brandon Davis Alysia Chang Thomas Geraci Darren & Kymberly Keepers Barbara Urban Audrey Martorana Dawna Kincaid Antoinette McKelvey Jamie McLaughlin Sandra Jacobsen Jose Miguel Recio Palomares Andrew Vivian Jason Peachey Laura Blakey Clare Matthews Patricia Carden James Tindale Joe Senyah Paula DiLeo Ashkan Shagheyegh Maria Meyers Lisa Grant Sarah Tahvanainen Suzette Audiss Kristen Wall Ashok Pvt *Anonymous Donor s

  • Medical Advisory Board | RELIVE Organization | Liver Transplant Support

    We are honored to have various experts in their respective fields on our Medical Advisory Board. MEDICAL ADVISORY BOARD We are honored to have various experts in their respective fields on our Medical Advisory Board. Gina Choi, MD Transplant Hepatology Pfleger Liver Institute UCLA Health Akshay Shetty, MD Transplant Hepatology Pfleger Liver Institute UCLA Health Julio Meza, MD Addiction Medicine UCLA Health Richard A. Schofield, LMFT Addiction Specialist Fady M. Kaldas, MD, FACS Liver Transplant Surgery Pfleger Liver Institute UCLA Health Andrew Baird, RN, MSN, CCTC Liver Transplant Coordinator UCLA Health James M. Wilson, MD Nephrology UCLA Health Arpan A. Patel, MD Gastroenterology UCLA Health JOIN RELIVE If you have interest in joining our Medical Advisory Board, please contact us: JOIN US Phone (310) 304-0280

  • Patients: Pre & Post | RELIVE Organization | Liver Transplant Support

    Patients: Pre-Transplant, Liver Transplant Surgery, Post-Transplant, Travel Tips. PATIENTS: PRE & POST-TRANSPLANT PRE-TRANSPLANT TRANSPLANT SURGERY POST-TRANSPLANT TRAVEL TIPS PRE-TRANSPLANT There are two stages to pre-transplant once it's been concluded that your liver disease is at an End Stage- unlisted and listed . Once you are evaluated and accepted for the UNOS national transplant waiting list, you are eligible to receive a liver transplant. Before we discuss criteria, time and other practicalities, I want to say this to you- regardless of listing status or cause for your disease- it is essential: HOLD FAST. I came face-to-face with my mortality as will you. It will be the greatest challenge you will ever face- in every sense of the word. To the patient who is deemed innocent under such affliction there may be confusion, frustration- Why me? To the alcoholic and addict, there may be shame and guilt. But to all of us there will be fear and many forms of suffering. Fear of future outcomes must wait. Grasp the Victories and cherish them. The setbacks are mere road bumps on the way to the destination. Hold Fast. Hold fast to this moment. We have only Now . In this time, we can crumple and be broken, the unfairness of our situation engulfing us. Or, we can rise up. The human's ability to endure can be infinite. Our capacity to love can grow, not diminish. Our spirit transcends. Accept this challenge as freely as you may- this is It . We must see ourselves making it, always . This passage strips us of many freedoms, but it also frees us from all that is unnecessary. All that remains is love, beyond even hope. The Love we Give, the Love we Receive. We may hold this now at our deepest and most tenuous time, and let it guide us when we rise to enjoy our new life once again. Hence our Phoenix. We become married to our donors and together we must venture forth in this spirit of love. Our mortality, our fragility makes life fleeting so scintillating and lovely. Here at RELIVE, in our support groups, in this life, you are Family and you are Loved . Always. With My Love to You, Trent Ford COURSE OF ACTION ONE MAY ANTICIPATE Disclaimer: Please always seek the advice of your primary care physician or qualified health care provider. OVERVIEW: DR. CONSULTATION & TESTING | REFERRAL & CRITERIA | EVALUATION OUTCOME & TRANSPLANT TEAM | WAITING FOR YOUR LIVER TRANSPLANT DR. CONSULTATION & TESTING: If you, or your loved one, have been experiencing symptoms of liver disease ( please refer to our Causes & Symptoms section ), consult with your doctor. Treatment will depend on the type of liver disease and how far it has progressed. Some types of liver disease rarely cause symptoms until the advanced stages. To accurately diagnose the cause of liver disease, your doctor will recommend tests that may include: Blood tests Liver function tests & other blood tests Imaging tests Ultrasound, MRI & CT scan Liver biopsy Small piece of liver tissue is removed & examined REFERRAL & CRITERIA TO QUALIFY FOR A LIVER TRANSPLANT: Doctors can refer patients to their local transplant center for a formal evaluation. A life-saving liver transplant is usually a last-resort treatment. Before a patient can be added to the transplant waiting list, they will need to undergo a comprehensive evaluation to determine whether or not they are a candidate for a transplant. A team of healthcare professionals will fully evaluate your physical and mental health and any history of chemical dependencies. Your primary caregiver should also be involved. Any compromising conditions will need to be addressed and treated first . THE EVALUATION PROCESS INCLUDES: Calculating your MELD (model for end-stage liver disease) score, which determines your placement on the transplant waiting list. Also indicates how sick the patient is - designed to give the highest priority to people at the highest risk of dying without a transplant . ( Please se e Glossary of Terms ) Blood and diagnostic tests (heart, lungs, etc . ) , as well as imaging and x-rays to assess overall health, see if the patient is strong enough to endure the proced ure and improve the chances of a good match. Assessing social and psychological issues involved in organ transplantation, such as financial issues, stress, family or other support. A frank and deep delve into any underlying issues of alcoholism and or addiction. Consideration of medical history and other information that could help determine your eligibility for a liver transplant. Immunizations and other preparations to reduce the chance of infection. In our experience (being transplanted at UCLA in Southern California), a MELD score in the mid to high 30s is typical for transplant. This may vary according to blood type, transplant center median MELD score and region of the U.S. EVALUATION OUTCOME & TRANSPLANT TEAM: Once your transplant evaluation is completed, the transplant tea m will discuss your case at their transplant selection committee meeting. Based on your overall health and risks versus benefits of transplant, you will either be accepted, denied, or put on hold. Your transplant coordinator or doctor will contact you after the meeting to discuss their decision and recommendations. There are many reasons to be placed on hold, including the need for additional testing, financial clearance, treatments, or substance abuse program participation, in order to re-present your case to committee to make a final decision. Always provide any documentation showing progress or completion of these additional steps to your transplant coordinator. Compliance is crucial . It's important to know your liver transplant team. They are there for you throughout this entire process- you are not in it alone. Many wonderful medical care team members will monitor your health and care, from evaluation, to transplant, to recovery and post-transplant life. You may have some or all of the following health professionals on your transplant care team. Some will be there from the onset, some will join as your case progresses. It's quite remarkable and humbling really- from chief surgeon to catering and cleaning staff- they are all pulling for You . LIVE R TRANSPLANT TEAM MAY CONSIST OF: Transplant Coordinator Social Worker Financial Coordinator Transplant Surgeon Hepatologist Registered Dietitian Nutritionist Consulting Physicians (Nephrologists, Cardiologists, Hematologists, Endocrinologists, Oncologists, Infectious disease specialists, Psychiatrists, Addiction specialists, Anesthesiologists) Case Manager Medical Residents Fellows Nurse Practitioner (NP) Registered Nurse (RN) Physician As sistant Operating Room Nurses Intensive Care Nurses Transplant Assistant Procurement Coordinator Dialysis Technician Imaging & Radiology Physical Therapist Occupational Therapist Pharmacist If the transplant team decides a liver transplant is not the best treatment option for you, do not be discouraged! This may well be good news. Regardless of outcome, at this point, ALL patients should continue care with their liver doctor and obey the edicts of living advised by them. You may also seek a second opinion at another transplant center. You always have the option to continue your current medical management and to not pursue an organ transplant. Most patients with an irreversibly injured or damaged liver have a very limited life expectancy without liver transplantation. There is no other long-term treatment alternative for a failing liver. It must be understood, that although institutions may vary with required criteria, none will respond to will and coercion alone. We ALWAYS get the best results working alongside these incredible institutions as a unified team- they want the best outcome for the patient and their loved ones. WAITING FOR YOUR LIVER TRANSPLANT: Once you meet the criteria, if the transplant team decides you are a candidate for a liver transplant, you will be accepted and placed on the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) national waiting list. During this waiting period, your transplant team will advise you on how to prepare for the transplant and guide you in maximizing your health, so that you are in the best condition possible for surgery. It's extremely important to remain available 24/7 at the contact information you provide to the transplant team, so they can reach you immediately when a liver becomes available. For some patients, living donor liver transplants may be an option- discuss this with your hepatologist and transplant coordinator. It's not uncommon to be called as a back-up when a donor liver becomes available, in case the primary recipient isn't able to undergo surgery. There is also a chance the donor liver will not be suitable for transplant and the surgery will be canceled. This does not affect your place on the list. Take heart - when it's meant to be, your time will come. MELD: Model for End-Stage Liver Disease A numerical scale used for liver transplant candidates age 12 and older, calculated by a formula using routine lab test results to determine how urgently a patient needs a liver transplant within the next three months. If your MELD score is very high, you will have high priority for a transplant. MELD scores range from 6 (least sick ) to 40 (gravely sick ). Your score may go up or down as your liver disease either worsens or improves. Your MELD score may be recalculated a number of times while you are on the waiting list- this helps ensure that the matching system accurately compares your need to that of others on the waiting list. If your medical urgency is not reflected by the calculated MELD score and your transplant team believes you qualify for an exception, they may submit information to the UNOS National Liver Review Board and request a higher score (a MELD exception). Sometimes, people fall ill suddenly and end up in the hospital in critical condition with acute liver failure- if they land in a transplant hospital, or are emergency transferred to a transplant center, they will be evaluated in hospital. When time is of the essence, these patients may be listed and transplanted in a matter of days. Therefore, length of time for evaluation and time spent on the waiting list is often directly influenced by how critical a patient's condition is. Remember- Each case is unique and wait time is a reflection of that; it may be days, weeks, months or years. Be careful of a common stressor to patient and caregiver associated with this question of "When?" and comparisons. The number of patients with end-stage liver disease on the transplant waiting list greatly outnumber the number of livers available . All donor livers are matched to recipients according to blood type and size, as well as medical urgency, genetic makeup, time on the waiting list and proximity between the donor and recipient. Always bear in mind a liver transplant is a major procedure- and a lifelong commitment- and is medically viewed as a last resort. TRAVEL TIPS: Always talk to your transplant team before making travel plans. If you are traveling to a different time zone, ask your transplant coordinator how to safely manage your medication schedule. Keep an updated medication list with you at all times. Always bring more medication than you think you will need. Always keep your medications with you/in your carry-on when traveling, never pack medications in your luggage or check-in bag. Keep your transplant coordinator's contact information with you at all times. Keep your pharmacy's phone number with you/in your phone contacts. A medical alert ID bracelet or necklace is recommended, especially post-transplant; the vital engraved medical/contact information can be helpful in emergencies when a person may be unconscious or unable to speak. LIVER TRANSPLANT SURGERY: When a donor liver becomes available, the transplant coordinator has ONE HOUR to reach you before the offer must move on to the next patient on the list- they must be able to reach you 24/7 . You will be asked to go to the hospital within a certain window of time. Plan ahead for receiving "the call". The surgical procedure is a complex operation performed under general anesthesia and requires blood transfusions. You will be in the operating room anywhere from 6-12 hours. Sometimes the surgical procedure is done in two parts (days apart), dependent upon the complexity and delicacy of the procedure- less common, but this is not irregular. The transplant surgeon will make an incision across your abdomen (chevron incision) that looks like a Mercedes Benz symbol. During the operation, your diseased liver is removed and replaced by a new donor liver. The transplant surgeon will close the incision using surgical staples. POST-TRANSPLANT What matters most is how well you walk through the fire. Ch arles Bukowski, How Is Your Heart? You will burn, and you will burn out; you will be healed and come back again. Fyodor Dostoevsky, Brothers Karamazov Only the Phoenix rises and does not descend. And everything changes. And not hing is truly lost. Neil Gaiman, The Sandman, Vol 10 Here we are. You have endured and now, This Is It . There is a rebirth and in this is a sacred marriage- to your beautiful donor. We have a choice with only one true answer: Do I languish and ask, 'Why me?' 'Why did this happen to me?' Mourning for our old life. Or, do we seek not to let questions of the past consume us and choose, instead, to embrace with open arms, this true newness of life? My promise, my answer, to myself, is not to strive for the success of a trivial life in money, career, and applause. They will come if they may, though equally, they may not. (That is not for me to know or control, as is so much of my life.) My promise is to live: To Love and express it. To be Truthful and to Trust- that the world is Good and better for me in it as I am now . Every road, mine and yours, must and will meander with bumps and adversity as necessity- how dull a straight line road is! But I have this moment to savor and if I might do that, it is a life well lived day by day. Be kind to yourself. Protect and nurture yourself. Seek help freely when needed- as freely as you would help another now. You and your marriage deserves no less; our best is Now : In each breath, each heart beat, our new organ rests, thrives and grows hand-in-hand with us, content to dwell in such a lovely home. We may now Relive with all the loveliness of what we were in union with what we know we wish to be. My Love to You, Trent Ford OVERVIEW: Disclaimer: Please always follow and seek the advice of your transplant team, primary care physician or qualified health care provider. LIVER TRANSPLANT SURGERY RECOVERY | THE RUN UP TO DISCHARGE | LIFE AFTER TRANSPLANT | LIFELONG REQUIREMENTS LIVER TRANSPLANT SURGERY RECOVERY: Once your operation is complete, you will be brought back to the surgical intensive care unit (ICU). The nurses and doctors will closely monitor your liver function, vitals and medication levels, and watch for signs and symptoms of infection, rejection, or other issues. Patients are kept on a ventilator until fully conscious and able to breathe on their own. Immunosuppressive medications are started early after transplantation ( such as Mycophenolate mofetil , Tacrolimus and Prednisone - please see Glossary of Terms ). If there are no complications and liver function is stable, most patients remain in the ICU for 2 to 5 days before being transferred to a step down unit. A patient's condition and overall health pre-transplant often determines the length of time spent in the hospital post-transplant. Patients usually stay in the hospital for a couple weeks after the procedure. Some patients require more time to recover and may need to be transferred to a rehabilitation facility, to regain physical strength before returning home. After surgery, your bowels will take a few days to wake up and begin working again. You will begin drinking liquids once you pass the swallow test and slowly reintroduce solid foods. Dialysis may be required for a period of time after the procedure. In the first week or so post-transplant, the steroids administered can cause confusion, mood disturbances and manic states, which improves over time as the dosage is reduced. Taste buds might be affected too, but this is temporary. This time spent in the hospital may be trying and seem a bit excessive, but again, it is imperative to understand that the transplant team wants to achieve the best long-term outcome for you possible. These precious early days are crucial to a successful recovery. (An important note for Caregivers : Don't take it personally if your loved one behaves differently towards you, or if it's hard to communicate during this time- their body endured a major operation, received a beautiful new liver and is adjusting to all of the new medications in their system. It's a very emotional, overwhelming and joyous time for all. Encouragement, love and positivity helps patients immensely at this stage. Be kind to one another. Remember to hydrate, eat healthy and get rest when you can. You will need your energy when they come home! Also, it's a good idea to hold onto your loved one's wallet- it's not uncommon for patients to make interesting online purchases at this stage..!) THE RUN UP TO DISCHARGE: Your transplant team will support you- they will teach you and your caregivers how to take care of your new liver. They will help coordinate your discharge and home care needs. Before being discharged from the hospital, you will go through extensive teaching regarding medications, diet and physical activities. Local housing will be required for up to 3 months for those living a far distance from their transplant center, to stay close following transplant. THE TRANSITION FROM INPATIENT TO OUTPATIENT: Physical therapy (PT) to assess and develop/regain strength. Occupational therapy (OT) to address how you will get dressed, bathe, get around your home- will you need a walker? A shower stool? Are there stairs? Dietitian will outline (in great detail) an ideal post-transplant diet and foods you must limit and/or absolutely avoid. Pharmacist will walk you through all of your new medications, as well as how often and when to take them. You will be given specific instructions about the schedule for blood work and follow-up clinic visits. You will receive important information regarding when and how to notify your transplant team if any emergencies or signs of infection or rejection occur. (An important note for Patients : You are called a patient for a reason- be patient with yourself and others. Learn hospital staff names and be polite to them. Don't be embarrassed, because these wonderful people have seen it all before and they are there to help you and take care of you. Be brave, be compliant. Try your best- embrace the challenges and celebrate the progress you make each day . At this stage, it's so important to do the work that is required of you. Row in the same direction as your transplant team! The next phase of recovery will seem daunting, as they prepare to send you home, but you've got an incredible team of experts guiding you every step of the way.) LIFE AFTER TRANSPLANT: After your liver transplant, you will be followed closely in post-transplant clinic. Your team will monitor liver function, blood pressure, medication levels, infection, rejection or other issues. At first, patients need to be seen as frequently as 2 times a week. Blood work is done often and your team will make adjustments to medications as needed. You will check your temperature, heart rate and blood pressure twice a day for the first month after you go home, and whenever you do not feel well. If advised, you will check your blood sugar. Avoid exercises and activities that may strain your abdomen. Staples will be removed in clinic several weeks after surgery. According to guidelines from the American Heart Association and the American Medical Association, it is recommended that no elective dental work, including cleanings, be done during the first 6 months following a transplant. Your transplant team will advise you as to when it is safe to drive, swim, travel, or lift anything heavier than 10-15 pounds following surgery. Follow their advice . As you heal from surgery and become healthier and stronger, you will not need to be seen as often. It is vital for all liver transplant patients to maintain a Primary Care Physician/Provider (PCP) and follow up with them on a regular basis. Life-long follow up from your medical care providers is required to ensure that your transplanted liver will function normally. It is your responsibility to keep your new liver healthy by taking all medications as prescribed and by notifying your transplant team of any changes in your condition. Notify your transplant coordinator right away if there are any changes in your contact information- address, phone numbers, and/or your caregivers. Do not make changes to your insurance without discussing the options with your transplant finance team, first. Compliance is essential . Should you suspect signs of rejection or infection, you must notify your transplant coordinator immediately. If after hours, or on weekends and holidays, call the Page Operator to reach the liver transplant coordinator on call. If they do not get back to you soon, FOLLOW UP CALL! Never delay in instances such as this. SIGNS OF REJECTION INCLUDE: Fever of 100.5 degrees F or higher Jaundice (yellow skin or eyes) Dark urine Pale stools Flu-like symptoms and/or tenderness over the liver SIGNS OF INFECTION INCLUDE: Fever of 100.5 degrees F or greater Sore throat Cold or flu-like symptoms Rashes or lesions on your skin Pain or burning when you urinate Watery stools lasting more than 24 hours Redness, swelling or milky fluid coming from your incisions, IV or drain sites LIFELONG REQUIREMENTS: Immunosuppressant medications are taken for life , to prevent your body from rejecting your new liver. You will be instructed on your immunosuppressant dosing. If you miss a dose, notify your transplant team. You should never double up on immunosuppressant medication if you miss a dose. Always check with your transplant team or physician before you start or stop any medications, due to possible drug interactions . This includes over-the-counter medications and herbal remedies . You are responsible for making sure that you do not run out of medications! Notify your team right away if you are unable to take medications due to vomiting. Also, notify your team if you have watery stools 2-3 times or more in a 24-hour period and there is no improvement (this can affect the levels of your medications). Carry your medication list with you at all times and update it as changes are made by your transplant team. It's important for your caregivers to keep updated copies too. Your transplant team will inform you of potential side effects caused by medications, as well as complications and medical risks that may occur after the surgery- no procedure is completely risk-free. You are an important part of the team, because you know your body best. Communication is key . After transplant, feelings of anxiety, guilt and depression can be common. It is essential to take care of yourself- maintain a healthy diet, hydrate well, get plenty of sleep and regular exercise. Find time to meditate and pursue gentle, enjoyable hobbies and interests that divert the mind. Creative outlets play an important part in healing, too- art, music, journaling and so on. Avoid excessive social media and news cycles. Joining support groups and seeking therapy are vital tools for improving your mental health. Connecting with others in the transplant community can form deep, lasting friendships with those who really know what it's like. Our RELIVE support group members would especially attest to this. The first year after transplant is very much like being a (full-grown) newborn! This is an important time for you to heal, not just physically, but mentally, emotionally and spiritually too. RULES TO LIVE BY POST-TRANSPLANT: For the rest of your life, you will abstain from alcohol. This includes food cooked with alcohol, non-alcoholic beer, mouth wash with alcohol and medications with alcohol, such as NyQuil. You will not smoke cigarettes, marijuana, or use any illegal substances for the rest of your life. Avoid grapefruit, pomegranate, starfruit, pomelo, Seville or bitter orange, orange marmalade and beverages containing these fruits (may interact with anti-rejection medications). Do not take Advil, Aspirin, (or other NSAIDS) or any other over-the-counter medications unless instructed by your transplant team that it is safe to do so. Avoid raw, undercooked meat, fish, and shellfish- bacteria or viruses from these foods may cause severe food poisoning/higher risk of death. Contact your transplant team immediately if you have gone to an emergency room or have been admitted to a hospital other than your transplant center. You are responsible for making all clinic appointments after you are discharged from the hospital. If you are having labs drawn at a facility other than your transplant center, make sure your transplant team has the contact information for the outside lab. Do not go swimming, use a jacuzzi, or a hot tub while you have a central line, drain or open wound. You may take a shower. It's important to wear a mask everywhere outside of your home for the first 3 months after transplant, and whenever traveling or in crowds. Avoid sick people . If you wish to travel during the first year after your transplant, you must have the trip approved by your doctor. Be ext ra cautious about food preparation and storage to reduce the risk of infection . Wash hands well with soap and water before preparing food, and sanitize all work surfaces. Frequent hand washing and use of hand sanitizer is an effective way to prevent spread of germs and infection. You must wear sunscreen when you are outdoors, even on cloudy days- there's an increased risk of skin cancer, due to immunosuppressant medications. Regular skin checks with your dermatologist will be required. A lways check with your transplant team before taking any antibiotics or medications prescribed by physicians outside of your transplant team- some antibiotics interfere with your immunosuppressant medications. If you have a cat, someone else must clean the litter box daily. Avoid direct contact with animal feces. Avoid pet birds, fish, reptiles, or rodents of any kind. It is prudent to avoid areas contaminated with bird droppings. Av oid live plants and yard work/do not touch soil for the first 3 months following transplant. After 3 months, you must wear gloves and a mask when distributing soil. House plants should not be in your immediate living or sleeping areas. Someone else should change the water in flower vases. You cannot receive any live-virus vaccinations, such as MMR, oral polio, some flu vaccines and the Shingles vaccine. Avoid contact with the body fluids of anyone who has had a live-virus vaccine for 4 weeks after the vaccination- the virus can be shed in body fluids and make you sick. If you have not had Chickenpox and are exposed to it, notify your transplant team immediately.

  • Caregivers | RELIVE Organization | Liver Transplant Support

    Caregivers are physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually affected by their loved one's illness and road to recovery. Throughout the transplant process, caregivers’ needs, health and well-being may be overlooked when patient issues take precedence as the main focus. Here are some useful tips CAREGIVERS Caregivers are physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually affected by their loved one's chronic illness and road to recovery. Throughout the transplant process, caregivers’ needs, health and well-being may be overlooked when patient issues take precedence as the main focus. Here are some useful tips to help you balance your self-care while caring for your loved one. Also, some caregiver resources are listed below: TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF Stay hydrated, eat healthy, get adequate sleep and exercise when you can. Don't neglect your own health. It's essential to take time for yourself each day, to socialize and do the things you enjoy. Be kind to yourself and do nice things for yourself- grab a coffee, go for a walk outside, get a relaxing massage. Accept your emotions and learn to recognize when you need to take a break. REACH OUT Join our support groups to connect with others going through similar experiences. It's helpful to hear from other caregivers who have been on this transplant journey. To share experience, offer support and hope. Friendships can form here. Seek therapy- the patient isn't the only one going through trauma. Yours is different to theirs yet equally valid. ONE STEP AT A TIME One obstacle at a time . Focus on the things you can control, because so much is out of our control and things can change very quickly . Take notes, ask questions, talk to your loved one's health care provider to relieve anxiety and plan for the future. Learn to pause, take deep breaths when you're feeling overwhelmed. Reflect through prayer or meditation. Be present and make the most of each moment with your loved one. Hold tight to the victories, setbacks are mere road bumps today. ACCEPT HELP Don't be afraid to ask for help, and be specific about what you need. Let people care for you- keep an open line of communication with family, friends, your community, co-workers and fellow caregivers in our support groups. For instance, someone might offer to pick up groceries or cook a meal for you. You don't have to go it alone. Caregiver burnout is real . When we ask for help we are being of service, because we allow another person to be their best self. CAREGIVER RESOURCES: Respite care - Pro vides short-term relief for caregivers. Most communities have some type of respite care available, such as: in-home respite, adult care centers, short-term assisted living and day hospitals. To get started, contact your loca l Area Agency on Aging (AAA) to learn about services in your community. California residents can start here . How to pay for home health car e - Call y our loved one's insurance pro vider or check your benefits package to see if they cover in-home care. Costs of home care depends on what services you use. Medicare and Medicaid/Medi-Cal companies will cover some of the costs of home health care. To find out if you are eligible for home health services: Medicare Medi-Cal (if located outside of California, contact your closest Medic aid office) If you have Medi-Cal, you may qualify for IHSS (In-Home Supportive Services) . Apply here . R e m ember - Transplant centers have social workers, case managers and financial coordinators who can help you with the financial details of your loved one's transplant. Your medical care team is there to assist you and prepare you for what's to come. Contact them anytime you have a question or need assistance. If your patient's medical condition or insurance coverage changes, notify your assigned transplant coordinator right away . Advance Care Pl ann ing (A CP) for p atien ts with cirrho sis - Pati ents w ith cirrhosis often enco unter difficult and complex medical deci sions and m ay experience complications, such as hepatic encephalopathy (HE) , that impair their ability to participate in decision-making. It is vital for the patient to identify an appropriate surrogate decision maker (in the outpatient setting early in the disease , if possible) and involve this person througho ut the process . Filling out an advance directive, writing a will, and sharing access to bank accounts, email, etc. with this trusted person is essential . Prepare a phone/email tree - It's helpful to set up an effi cient way to provide updates to friends and family on the progress of your loved one's surgery and recovery. Use ful equip ment and supplies to have at h ome - A blood pressure monitor, a reliable therm ometer, pulse oximeter, weekly pill organizer and travel p ill cas e, medical alert ID bracelet or necklace (for patient to wear- provides vital medical information in an emergency), updated medication list, walker, wheelchair, shower stool (if necessary) , an intercom system, hand saniti zer, disposable face masks, disposable gloves. *Post-transplant patients may be discharged to home with a walker, blood pressure monitor and weekly pill organizer. Paid Family Leave (PFL) - You may be eligible for PFL to care for your ill family member. California Paid Family Leave provides partial wage benefits to California workers who take time off from work for what matters most- Check to see if you are eligible here . How to find a therapist (for patients & caregivers) - S ome options to c onsider: Ask your primary care physician for a referral. Contact your insurance direct ly and ask for a list of "in-network providers" - For Medi-Cal patients, contact the ACCESS Center at: 1 (8 00) 854-7771 ( Option /Extension 1 ) for assistance with screenings, assessments and referrals to counseling. Consider searching online: Psychology Today , BetterHel p , Talkspace , to name a few. Ask your friends, family members, social worker, fellow caregivers- sometimes it's helpful to ask around to find a provider that would be a good fit for you.

  • Dedicated Helpline | RELIVE Organization | Liver Transplant Support

    We Are Here For You. Stay Connected. You Are Not Alone. DEDICATED HELPLINE We Are Here For You. Phone (310) 304-0280 STAY CONNECTED You Are Not Alone. If you need emergency medical assistance, dial 911 immediately. Disclaimer: RELIVE is not affiliated with any doctor, hospital or medical group. Please always seek the advice of your primary care physician or qualified health care provider.

  • RELIVE Nonprofit Organization | Liver Transplant Support

    Welcome to RELIVE. No matter where you are on your liver transplant journey, we are here for you- You are not alone. RELIVE was founded to provide free ongoing peer-led support and resources for every patient and caregiver affected by liver failure. Specializing in helping those suffering from alcohol and addiction related liver disease. No matter where you are on your liver transplant journey, we are here for you. You Are Not Alone. PROUD TO BE RECOGNIZED BY: Post-Transplant Patient "RELIVE is what hospitals should adopt in the form of care. We are all so much better when we are connected...RELIVE is uplifting, love-centered and a blanket of safety." OUR MISSION To provide free ongoing support and resources for pre and post-liver transplant patients and caregivers at every stage of their journey, regardless of status, income or background. Specializing in a strong, sustainable program for alcohol and addiction recovery with counseling for patients with liver failure. Through the unique understanding of people with lived experience, we work to destigmatize, educate and address this major cause of liver failure. Building the foundation upon which a sober and serene life may rise from the ashes. Through demonstration of successful progress and outcomes from RELIVE, we hope to improve the liver transplant system in general. To encourage non-transplant centers to be more active in reaching out to transplant centers for patients in need and to encourage many transplant centers to reevaluate their transplant waitlist criteria as it pertains to patients with liver failure due to alcoholism and addiction. OUR VISION RELIVE was founded in 2023 by liver transplant recipient, Trent Ford, and the love of his life and primary caregiver, Natalie Cohen, to share experience, provide hope, healing and support for everyone affected by liver failure- patients and caregivers alike. Services will always be free and confidential . Established to raise awareness about liver disease; so that patients showing signs of end-stage liver disease (ESLD) may be reached sooner and promptly referred to a specialist. To assist patients in need of transplant who are suffering from alcoholism and addiction, particularly with less than six months of sobriety. To collaborate with medical institutions and medical professionals. To provide aid during the transplant evaluation process. Supporting patients’ necessary commitment to lifelong change; helping to maintain and grow sobriety and prevent relapse. We honor and cherish the gift of life received by grace of medicine and our donor. We live to share this gift freely with all in similar need. Trent & Natalie, Founders of RELIVE. P hotographed by Sean Kara

  • Donate | RELIVE Organization | Liver Transplant Support

    We need your support to continue our life-saving work. We are grateful for generous donors like you. Your gift makes it possible for us to continue to provide free mental health support, counseling, support group meetings, one-on-one sessions, resources, information, education, advocacy, relief and hope to every liver patient and caregiver in need. DONATE TO RELIVE There are many ways to make a financial donation to support the mission of RELIVE. For more information, please email: info@wearerelive.org . (Compare your options and speak with a financial planner, tax advisor, and/or a philanthropic advisor to help determine the best way to give for your particular situation.) Please consider making a tax-deductible donation to ensure we can continue to support patients and caregivers throughout their liver transplant journey. Your support allows us to continue our life-saving work. We are grateful for generous donors like you. Your gift makes it possible for us to provide free mental health support, counseling, online support group meetings, one-on-one sessions, resources, information, education, advocacy, relief and hope to every liver patient and caregiver in need. Thank you for making a difference in the lives of those we serve. RELIVE is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization entirely dedicated to patients and caregivers affected by liver disease- going from liver failure, all the way through to a long, healthy post-transplant life. We specialize in a sustainable program for alcoholism and addiction recovery, with free counseling for patients with end-stage liver disease, those transplanted and regenerating. *Our fundraising platform is Zeffy , where 100% of your donation goes to RELIVE . Zeffy is funded solely through contributions made by donors- you have the option to donate to Zeffy if you wish, but it is not required .

  • Our Founders | RELIVE Organization | Liver Transplant Support

    RELIVE was founded by liver transplant recipient, Trent Ford, and the love of his life and primary caregiver, Natalie Cohen, to share experience, provide hope, healing and support for everyone affected by liver failure- patients and caregivers alike. OUR FOUNDERS TRENT FORD Co-Founder, President I received my life-saving liver transplant on May 30, 2020 at UCLA . It changed me forever profoundly. Not only was my liver transplanted, but my spirit also, root and branch. I received miraculous mercy and grace I felt I did not necessarily deserve. I cherish the donor living within me as a sacred marriage. I am forever grateful to the incredible medical team at UCLA, from cleaning staff, to ICU nurses, social workers, admin, dialysis, to my surgeon. I counted people from 32 nations all told who helped me- happily I am forever in their debt! I had a good life- loving family, friends, a degree from Clare College, University of Cambridge, a successful career as a model and actor in film and TV, and the unwavering love and support of the most special woman, my Darling Natalie. Yet I suffered for many years and fell fatally ill due to my alcoholism. I made no excuses for it and I do not shrink from it. I have been raised up. Leading up to it, I felt terribly alone, as did my love, Natalie. Since my transplant, I have a true life's mission that I have put into action and that has seen success. To help others in positions like mine; liver failure in general and all those affected- pre-transplant, post-transplant, and caregiver- providing strength, hope, resources, education and guidance through this transplant journey. In particular, to aid those who suffer from addiction; to help them embark upon, maintain and grow their sobriety and serenity through spirituality and practical action, is of the deepest value to me. To restore people to their families and thus restore the family itself- to Relive . It is our vision that this part of liver disease may become better understood, less reviled and that other medical institutions might consider under 6 months with the right tools in place- I offer this with great gratitude, as I do to anyone in need who I may serve. NATALIE COHEN Co-Founder, Treasurer/Executive Director Almost 15 years to the day we first met, Trent received his miraculous liver transplant at UCLA . When Trent was hospitalized in April 2020, we were at the height of the Covid-19 pandemic. I wasn't allowed to visit him; I was desperate to see him and wanted nothing more than to sit at his bedside and hold his hand. Trent was placed in palliative care at our local hospital for a month: He received mass amounts of blood and plasma transfusions, an emergency TIPS procedure that had complications and had to be redone; he was intubated for 9 days, had a Blakemore tube, severe episodes of hepatic encephalopathy, developed double pneumonia, was restricted from eating or drinking, and placed on continuous dialysis as his kidneys began to fail. I was told repeatedly that there was nothing more they could do, that he would die there. I knew how hard Trent was fighting to stay alive and I refused to give up hope- it's not over until it's over. When I realized that Trent would need a liver transplant to survive, I knew we had to get him out of there and transferred to a transplant center as quickly as possible. I thank my beautiful Mom for stepping in and helping make the phone calls when I was beside myself. By the grace of God, an ER doctor who was on-call spoke to me one day and said it was a long shot, but he agreed to refer Trent to UCLA to be emergency transferred and evaluated, but there were no guarantees he would get transplanted. Giving Trent that chance meant everything- the difference between life and death . Like Trent, I was forever changed by this experience. In the years leading up to his transplant, I felt very alone, scared and helpless as I watched the man I love suffer and deteriorate. Trips to the ER and appointments with doctors and a 'specialist' always left us in the dark. The shame and stigma we both experienced was incredibly degrading and isolating. I will never forget it . This is why we are so passionate about helping others in similar situations. We don't want anyone who is going through this to feel alone. Our story and my Darling Trent is proof that there is always hope. Don't Give Up .

  • Patient Advocacy | RELIVE Organization | Liver Transplant Support

    We strive to offer as much information and the best care and support that we possibly can. We pledge to be compassionate, impartial, and always honest. If we can be of assistance to you in any way, we will do our best to do so. PATIENT ADVOCACY We strive to offer as much information and the best care and support that we possibly can. We pledge to be compassionate, impartial and always honest. If we can be of assistance to you in any way, we will do our best to do so. We are also happy to act as a reference, including participation in support group meetings and one-on-one sessions when building a case for listing and compliance, if you need it. We will continue to strive to expand the horizons of the plight of patients suffering from liver failure and to illuminate the great opportunity and progress possible related to patients suffering due to alcoholism and addiction. We will endeavor to encourage medical institutions along these lines- to consider such cases and their potential individually as opposed to through arbitrary indicators. That an adoption of such policies is beneficial for said institutions and for society in general in the long run; especially in the face of the ever-deepening crisis of mental health and related addiction issues. Disclaimer: RELIVE is not affiliated with any doctor, hospital or medical group. RELIVE is not a part of any transplant listing committee and does not guarantee any specific outcome or results.

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