As both a pancreas/kidney transplant recipient and a medical professional, I have a unique perspective on diabetes. As a clinical laboratory director in a small Michigan hospital, I have personally seen many of the devastating long-term effects of diabetes that I've experienced.
After living for 18 years with this disease, I developed virtually all of those complications, including kidney failure, eye damage, nerve damage, heart disease, and vascular disease. As my complications progressed, I turned to the Internet and discovered the wonderful work being done by Dr. Sutherland, Dr. Hering, and the staff at the Diabetes Institute for Immunology and Transplantation at the University of Minnesota. In 1996, I was fortunate to receive a pancreas/kidney transplant at the University of Minnesota and am alive today because of many dedicated care-providers and researchers.
Because of my background, I often lead information sessions and visit support groups to describe my experience. I am often asked if I would go through the transplant procedure again. I always respond to this question with an emphatic "yes." The transplant has made a tremendous difference in my life and do far, I have maintained great health.