Vanderbilt Transplant

While you're waiting, you can plan ahead for the day you get the call about your transplant. Develop a checklist of everything you'll need at the hospital and everyone you'll want to notify about the transplant call. Doing these things ahead of time will make everything easier.

Allow yourself about an hour after receiving the call to gather your things and be on your way to Vanderbilt. If you live more than two hours away, keep a bag packed so you can move quickly.

Identify a support person who can be at your side within an hour and who will help you by:

• notifying friends and family that you are on your way to Vanderbilt
• arranging for mail and newspaper collection and household needs while you are away
• cancelling any appointments (doctor, dentist, hair, church appointments, etc.)
• being sure you bring all your medications

After surgery, your support person may also be responsible for washing the clothes you bring to the hospital helping you learn to care for your incision. He or she will also make sure you take your new medications.