This is my my kidney donor search story from 2017 to 2018 and my surgery/post surgery story from July 10, 2018 (our surgery) to Feb 14, 2019 (national organ donor day).

FEBRUARY is National Organ Donor Day.

#AReasonWhy #LivingKidneyDonor#DonorsAreHeroes#SilentKiller#CKD

#SuperKidney #SuperkidneySavesLives #DonateLife

How has receiving a kidney transplant has changed your daily routine and overall quality of life?

Receiving a kidney transplant six years ago in July 2018 marked a significant turning point in Joel Remandaban's life. Prior to the surgery, Joel struggled with Stage 5 kidney disease, with his kidney function plummeting to a mere 11%. The journey was arduous, with Joel facing life-threatening situations twice due to kidney failure. His health was severely compromised, and his daily routine was a constant battle against illness and limitations. However, following the transplant, Joel experienced a dramatic transformation. The transplant bestowed upon him a newfound lease on life, significantly enhancing his overall quality of life. Within a span of 3.5 months post-surgery, Joel was able to return to work, marking a pivotal milestone in his recovery journey. The impact of the transplant rippled through every aspect of Joel's life, reshaping his daily routine and opening doors to previously unattainable experiences. Now equipped with renewed health and vitality, Joel found himself capable of pursuing activities he once deemed impossible, such as traveling and mountain climbing. The transplant not only restored Joel's physical well-being but also infused his life with a newfound sense of freedom and possibility, exemplifying the transformative power of organ transplantation on an individual's life.

What were the most significant emotional and psychological adjustments you had to make after receiving the kidney transplant?

Following his kidney transplant, Joel Remandaban embarked on a journey of emotional and psychological adjustment. Despite the challenges posed by his condition, Joel had always been known for his positive outlook on life. Even during the grueling period of undergoing dialysis for 3.5 years, he remained steadfast in his determination, continuing to work and refusing to let his circumstances define him. Surprisingly, rather than succumbing to despair, Joel found that his resilience was amplified by his experiences. The transplant served as a catalyst for profound introspection, prompting Joel to reevaluate his priorities and outlook on life. It ignited within him a renewed sense of purpose and gratitude, magnifying his positivity and strengthening his faith. The transplant deepened Joel's appreciation for the importance of family, igniting a newfound love and commitment towards his loved ones. He eagerly anticipated witnessing his children's growth and looked forward to the prospect of welcoming grandchildren into his life. Inspired by his journey, Joel also took proactive steps to give back to his community, initiating a college scholarship as a testament to his enduring optimism and desire to make a positive impact on the lives of others. Thus, while the transplant presented Joel with significant emotional and psychological challenges, it ultimately served as a catalyst for personal growth and empowerment, reaffirming his resilience and positivity in the face of adversity.

How did you navigate the uncertainties and challenges during the kidney transplant process, and what kept you motivated?

Throughout the transplant process, Joel Remandaban faced a myriad of uncertainties and challenges, yet remained steadfast in his resolve, buoyed by his unwavering determination and resilience. Before the transplant, Joel grappled with the daunting reality of being a single parent, compounded by financial concerns that loomed large on the horizon. However, these challenges paled in comparison to the rollercoaster journey of undergoing the transplant itself. Despite the initial relief following the successful surgery, Joel encountered a setback just one month later, as he grappled with internal bleeding. However, thanks to the swift intervention of medical professionals, the issue was promptly addressed, allowing Joel to bounce back with remarkable speed. Within a mere three months post-transplant, Joel defied the odds by returning to work, signaling a remarkable milestone in his recovery journey. Not content with merely reclaiming his previous routine, Joel embarked on a journey of exploration and discovery, traveling to the Philippines just a year later. Remarkably, this trip was devoid of any significant challenges, underscoring Joel's resilience and ability to navigate through uncertainty with grace and determination. Throughout this tumultuous period, Joel remained motivated by an unwavering sense of purpose and a steadfast commitment to overcoming adversity. His ability to triumph over challenges and embrace life's uncertainties serves as a testament to his indomitable spirit and unwavering resolve, inspiring others to persevere in the face of adversity.

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How has your relationship with your kidney donor evolved post-transplant?

Joel Remandaban's post-transplant journey has been deeply intertwined with his relationship with his donor, Chris Preciado, a figure who emerged as a beacon of hope and friendship in his life. While Chris was not Joel's biological donor, their connection was forged through a paired exchange program that facilitated Joel's life-changing transplant. Chris played a pivotal role in the intricate web of donor exchanges, serving as the missing link that connected Joel with his biological donor.

Despite the disparity in their ages—Chris being 28 and Joel 51—Joel embraced Chris as a surrogate son or nephew, and their relationship blossomed beyond the bounds of mere acquaintance. Chris's altruistic act of donation transcended the physical realm, fostering a deep bond between the two men. In the aftermath of the transplant, Chris spent two months with Joel in San Antonio, bridging geographical distances and cementing their newfound friendship.

Their connection extended beyond mere periodic meetings, with Joel and Chris commemorating their "kidneyversary" each July, marking the anniversary of Joel's life-saving transplant. Together, they embarked on various adventures, strengthening their bond through shared experiences. As their friendship flourished, Joel and Chris became pillars of support for each other, offering companionship and camaraderie through life's trials and triumphs.

Six years post-transplant, Joel reflects on the advancements in medical research, expressing optimism about the future of organ transplantation. With emerging technologies such as bionic kidneys and advancements in stem cell research, Joel remains hopeful that these innovations will alleviate the need for further transplants. He acknowledges the estimated 20-year lifespan for live donor recipients but remains optimistic about his future health and well-being. Through his enduring bond with Chris and his trust in medical progress, Joel navigates the post-transplant landscape with hope and gratitude, cherishing each day as a gift of renewed life.


Reflecting on your transplant experience, what insights or lessons have you gained about resilience and coping with adversity?

Joel Remandaban's transformative health experience through adversity has imparted invaluable insights into the essence of resilience and the art of coping with life's challenges. Reflecting on his experiences, Joel distills his lessons into a succinct set of guiding principles that underscore the power of perseverance and faith.

Joel emphasizes the importance of never giving up, regardless of the obstacles that may loom on the horizon. His journey serves as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit, demonstrating that with steadfast determination, even the most daunting challenges can be surmounted.

Central to Joel's resilience is his faith in a higher power, which he refers to as God or Infinite Intelligence. This profound belief serves as a source of solace and strength, imbuing Joel with the courage to face adversity head-on and trust in the greater purpose that guides his experience.

Through his journey, Joel has come to realize that nothing is impossible—a mantra that has guided him through the darkest moments of his struggle. Armed with this conviction, Joel refused to accept defeat, knowing deep within that a brighter future awaited him on the other side of his tribulations.

Joel's journey underscores the transformative power of maintaining a positive mindset. By cultivating mental, emotional, psychological, and physical well-being, Joel discovered an inner reservoir of resilience that enabled him to overcome seemingly insurmountable obstacles.

A pivotal turning point in Joel's journey came in 2015, during a near-death experience that imparted a profound sense of purpose and mission. This awakening served as a catalyst for Joel's commitment to living each day to its fullest, embracing a lifestyle characterized by health, wealth, and happiness.

As Joel continues to navigate life's twists and turns, he remains steadfast in his commitment to embodying the principles of resilience and unwavering faith, inspiring others to persevere in the face of adversity and embrace the boundless potential that lies within each of us.

Have there been any unexpected positive outcomes or new perspectives that emerged from your transplant experience?

Joel Remandaban's transplant experience has been marked by unexpected positive outcomes and profound shifts in perspective that have fundamentally transformed his outlook on life. One such revelation emerged from the realization that the donor's kidney undergoes a remarkable transformation, growing 1.5 times in size to accommodate the recipient's body—a testament to the awe-inspiring resilience and adaptability of the human body. This newfound understanding of the miraculous nature of transplantation served as a catalyst for Joel's exploration of deeper existential questions, prompting him to delve into philosophical works such as Og Mandino's "The Greatest Miracle in the World," which further opened his eyes to the profound beauty and wonder inherent in the human experience.

Beyond the physiological marvels of transplantation, Joel experienced a profound reframing of his attitude towards life, opting to trade expectation for appreciation—a shift that brought about newfound contentment and a sense of fulfillment. Embracing a minimalist lifestyle, Joel found solace in simplicity, shedding the burdens of excess and focusing on what truly matters. This newfound perspective imbued Joel with a sense of gratitude and thankfulness, leading him to cultivate qualities such as forgiveness, patience, and resilience in the face of life's uncertainties. For Joel, every moment became infused with a sense of wonder and reverence, as he came to recognize the inherent beauty and miraculous nature of existence itself.

Through his transplant experience, Joel emerged not only with a renewed lease on life but also with a profound appreciation for the unexpected gifts and blessings that emerge from life's trials and tribulations. His journey serves as a testament to the transformative power of perspective, reminding us that even in the darkest of times, there is light to be found if we approach life with open hearts and minds.

How has your support system (family, friends, healthcare team) contributed to your recovery and adaptation to life post-transplant?  

Joel Remandaban's journey through the transplant process and adaptation to life post-transplant has been profoundly shaped by the unwavering support of his family, friends, and healthcare team. During the critical period leading up to the transplant, Joel found solace in the companionship of a few close friends, with his donor, Chris, playing a particularly significant role. Chris's presence during Joel's recovery journey, including his month-long stay with Joel, provided invaluable emotional support and companionship, illustrating the profound bonds forged through the transplant experience.

Beyond the immediate circle of friends, Joel also found immense support from his online community, with Facebook friends offering words of encouragement and solidarity. Through regular Facebook Live sessions and a widely shared TV interview, Joel was able to leverage social media platforms to garner support and raise awareness about his journey, further underscoring the importance of community in navigating life's challenges.

bling a dedicated team to assist him, demonstrating his commitment to exploring all avenues of support available to him. However, amidst the backdrop of Joel's recovery, the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic presented unforeseen challenges, further underscoring the importance of his support network in sustaining him through difficult times.

Chief among Joel's pillars of support was his family, particularly his children, whose unwavering love and presence served as a source of strength and motivation during trying times. Despite the challenges posed by Joel's illness, his children remained a beacon of hope, providing him with a sense of purpose and resilience in the face of adversity.

Joel also highlights the pivotal role played by his healthcare team, including his kidney doctor and transplant surgeon, whose expertise and compassion guided him through every stage of his recovery journey. The hospital's comprehensive follow-up care further underscored the dedication of Joel's healthcare providers to ensuring his continued well-being.

However, perhaps the most profound source of support for Joel was his mother, whose unwavering faith and love sustained him through the darkest moments of his illness. From accompanying Joel during dialysis sessions to providing care and comfort after the surgery, Joel's mother epitomized unconditional love and devotion. Tragically, her passing from COVID-19 in September 2022 marked a profound loss for Joel, underscoring the enduring impact of her presence in his life.

Joel's experience through transplantation and recovery serves as a testament to the transformative power of support and love. Whether from family, friends, or healthcare providers, the unwavering presence of his support network has been instrumental in Joel's ability to navigate life's challenges with resilience and grace.

Can you discuss any lifestyle changes you've embraced since receiving the kidney transplant and their impact on your well-being?  

Since receiving his transplant, Joel Remandaban has undergone significant lifestyle changes that have had a profound impact on his overall well-being and quality of life. Chief among these changes is a newfound focus on health and fitness, with Joel adopting a holistic approach to wellness that encompasses diet, exercise, and stress management.

A major component of Joel's lifestyle overhaul has been a transformation in his dietary habits. Recognizing the critical role that nutrition plays in maintaining optimal health, Joel has made conscious choices to prioritize whole, nutrient-rich foods while minimizing processed and unhealthy options. This dietary shift has not only fueled his body with essential nutrients but has also supported his immune system and overall well-being.

In addition to dietary changes, Joel has embraced a more active lifestyle, incorporating regular exercise into his routine. From brisk walking to hiking, Joel has discovered the joy and rejuvenating effects of physical activity. Exercise not only strengthens his body but also serves as a form of stress relief and emotional release, contributing to his overall sense of well-being.

Joel has embarked on a journey of self-discovery and education, delving into the realm of bio-hacking and wellness optimization. By constantly seeking knowledge and staying informed about the latest developments in health and longevity, Joel empowers himself to make informed choices that support his long-term well-being.

Central to Joel's lifestyle philosophy is the concept of "forever 25"—a mindset that transcends chronological age and embodies a youthful vitality and zest for life. Through practices such as meditation, prioritizing quality sleep, and managing stress, Joel nurtures his mind, body, and spirit, fostering a state of inner balance and harmony.

Another key aspect of Joel's lifestyle transformation is his embrace of solitude and introspection. By carving out moments of quiet reflection and solitude, Joel cultivates a sense of inner peace and tranquility, fostering a deeper connection with himself and the world around him.

Joel starts each day with a sense of purpose and intention, embracing the dawn with enthusiasm and gratitude. This proactive approach to life sets the tone for his day, empowering him to seize each moment with vigor and vitality.

Joel's lifestyle changes since receiving his transplant reflect a holistic commitment to health, well-being, and self-discovery. By prioritizing nutrition, fitness, education, and emotional wellness, Joel has forged a path to lasting vitality and fulfillment, embodying the principles of holistic living and personal empowerment.

Looking back, what advice would you offer to others awaiting a kidney transplant or considering becoming donors?  

Joel Remandaban offers advice to both individuals awaiting a kidney transplant and those considering becoming donors. For those awaiting a transplant, Joel emphasizes the importance of being proactive and assertive in their pursuit of a donor. He encourages individuals to advocate for themselves by engaging their social networks and sharing their personal stories, emphasizing the significance of their need for a transplant and the impact it will have on their lives and loved ones. Joel's own experience leveraging Facebook Live sessions and testimonials to garner support underscores the power of storytelling in eliciting empathy and support from others.

Joel advises patience and resilience in the face of the transplant process, recognizing that it can be a lengthy and emotionally taxing journey. While waiting for a match, individuals are encouraged to remain hopeful but also realistic, understanding that timing and outcomes may be beyond their control. Despite the challenges, Joel urges perseverance, reminding individuals to stay assertive and proactive in their pursuit of a donor.

For those considering becoming donors, Joel highlights the profound impact of their altruistic act. He emphasizes that donors possess the ability to alter the path of a person's life and even transform future generations. Joel's own donor, Chris, exemplifies the selflessness and compassion inherent in organ donation, underscoring the potential for donors to make a lasting, positive impact on the lives of others.

Joel emphasizes the notion of a second lease on life afforded by the transplant process. He encourages recipients to view their transplant as an opportunity to pay it forward and help others in need, thereby perpetuating the cycle of generosity and kindness.

Joel's advice serves as a guiding light for individuals navigating the complexities of kidney transplantation, offering wisdom born from his own transformative journey and inspiring others to approach the process with courage, resilience, and compassion.

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Joel's answers where transcribed and edited with gpt language model.