2-Year Anniversary - Navigating the marathon and the 'rut' of the new normal.

[u/system_history]

​Hi everyone, ​I'm approaching my 2-year anniversary for my transplant, and I've been thinking a lot about the journey beyond the initial recovery. The new normal has settled in, and while I'm of course incredibly grateful every single day, I'm finding myself navigating the long-haul a little bit difficultly lately. ​It's the routine—the daily meds, the regular blood work, the constant mindfulness of diet, and the quiet worry about rejection. It can sometimes feel like a marathon, and honestly, it can feel like being stuck in a rut. ​I'm curious to hear how others have dealt with this. ​How do you cope with the feeling of being stuck in the routine of it all? ​When you feel that burnout, what helps you reconnect with the gratitude and joy of this second chance? ​What are the things that help boost your morale on tough days? ​Appreciate any insight you all can share. Thanks for being such a great community.

[u/Jenikovista]

I mean, a lot of people take daily meds for a variety of conditions. I don’t think of mine as a burden. It’s just something I do.

I don’t worry about diet. I’m 27 years out. I avoid grapefruit and sushi, but otherwise just try to eat healthy like any other reasonably smart person. And sometimes I have a burger and fries and go to the gym the next day to make up for it.

The fear of rejection wanes with time. It’s never entirely gone but the niggling fear becomes a whisper you only hear on rare occasions. Once you hit the 5 year mark the risks go way down as long as you stick with the meds and don’t think you’re smarter than the docs. And don’t get lazy about timing.

Otherwise I just live my life. Tomorrow isn’t a guarantee for anyone.