David Cartwright's Kidney Transplant Journey Through COVID-19
David Cartwright’s eight-year journey to his kidney transplantcaused him to require dialysis,the process by whichwaste, salt and extra water are removed from the body by machine, since the kidneys can no longer perform this function.
But this timinglandedDavidin the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic.
“I was ready to finally schedule my transplant late in February 2020,”hesays.“Due to the COVID-19 pandemic,my surgery was postponed to an undetermined date.”
In the meantime, he adds, "I contracted COVID-19.”
David had toundergo a complete recovery before he waseligible to receive a transplant.
Toward the end of June, he got the callhe’d been awaitingfromtheͼ and NewYork-Presbyterian Kidney & Pancreas Transplant Program:It was timeto schedule his surgery.Living more than an hour away from Manhattan, David was hesitant to make the trip.
“But my friend and donor,Kathy,is a nurse and reassured me that we would be in good hands at WCM/NYP,” David says.“I was tested for COVID-19several times before myJulytransplant,and again on the day ofmy discharge.”
Despite the ongoing pandemic, David was confident in the care he received during the transplantand recoveryprocess.
“I always felt safe.Everyone I met--valet staff, cleaning, security, nurses and doctors--made me feel like I was special. With masks, gloves and extra precautions, my care was personalized, professional,and extra precautions were taken by all the staff to make sure I was safe and felt safe,” he says.
David continues his post-surgicalcarewiththeͼ and NewYork-Presbyterian Kidney & Pancreas Transplant Programand highly recommends the centerto others.
He adds: “I have received the most professional care where ever staff member went above and beyond to protect me, make me feel safe and made me feel like they were all part of my team.”