Kat

Kat found the connectedness of belonging to a community after finding Intestinal Rehab & Transplant Unwrapped:

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"After a very long journey of tests, procedures, lab work, etc. and multiple diagnoses' I ended up being evaluated for a multi visceral transplant. Turns out there's not a whole lot out there about the process, especially for adult patients. I am so grateful to Michele and her late daughter, Kayla, for creating this community to provide support, education, and access to all things intestinal. The support groups are a lifesaver for anyone looking to talk about the good and the bad with people who will not only relate to, but understand what you're going through. Through the tears, joys, hopes, concerns, and celebrations - it's a wonderful group to be a part of. I cannot thank Intestinal Rehab &  Transplant Unwrapped enough for what they do!"

Melanie

Sometimes members find us in the most unexpected ways!  Melanie explains: 

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“I had the opportunity to learn about the existence of Intestinal Rehab & Transplant Unwrapped group through Wendy and Bethany at the Oley’s conference. Talking with other caregivers makes you feel less alone and you learn from the experience of others.  It’s a place where you are not judged. Many thanks for giving me the opportunity to be part of this support group.”

Aamani and Ahkil

Aamani found our website and realized that, while her son’s condition is very rare, they, as a family, are not alone on this journey. Aamni shares that:

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“Intestinal Rehab & Transplant Unwrapped has been a vital source of information and support for our family while we navigate the complexities of multivisceral transplant. It brings together medical insights, personal stories, and community support, making it easier to understand the journey ahead and feel less alone in it. For those dealing with these medical challenges, it provides hope, resources, and a sense of community, helping families feel more prepared and connected to others with similar experiences.”

Pediatric Patient in Argentina

We sent translated Elpis the Elephant Gets An Intestinal Transplant Books to Intestinal Transplant Center in Buenos Aires, Argentina - Hospital Universitario-Fundacion Favaloro. This little patient was so thrilled to find “someone” that has similar medical issues to herself that her mom crocheted and Elpis stuffed animal for her.  She no longer feels alone! Powerful! 

Helio and Gwen

On Giving Tuesday last year we introduced Helio and Gwen while Helio was waiting for his second intestinal transplant. Here is an update:

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Helio received the gift of organs for the second time.  The wait had been long and difficult. The recovery journey has proven to be full of many ups and downs and many many days in the hospital.

Helio is so thankful for the support of the Intestinal Rehab & Transplant Unwrapped Community throughout these difficult times.

“There are time that I come to support group and I look like I am just sleeping.  I am listening in and feeling the power of not being alone!"

Gwen is a caregiver and spouse to a patient who has had two intestinal transplants. Through the intestinal Rehab & Transplant Unwrapped Community Gwen has continued to find a caring supportive community as she navigates the difficult physical and emotional journey she and her husband are on.

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“I feel exhausted most of the time but know that when I come to support group I will have a chance to laugh and talk about things that most other people, thankfully,  however well meaning, do not understand. I also am glad that I have a chance to provide some real encouragement to others from our experiences."

Cindy

Cindy relies on Intestinal Rehab & Transplant Unwrapped. She is an avid supporter, contributes to our Community Perspectives feature, recognizes our unique perspective and uses IRTxU to support others.                                 

“I received a bowel transplant in June 2018 and have been waiting for over four and a half years for a modified multi visceral transplant. In the 20+ years that I’ve dealt with significant bowel issues, I’ve come across some really wonderful organizations that work to assist patients, family and friends with various aspects of the nuances particular to bowel issues and transplant, but Intestinal Transplant Unwrapped has been a particular blessing to me for the ways they support, educate and connect patients who struggle with the challenges of intestinal failure and bowel and the more complex transplants. They are like no other! I refer friends and family to their website frequently and pass it along to my doctors as well for them to mention to other patients. I love Intestinal Rehab & Transplant Unwrapped’s perspective that presents the reality of the challenge and difficulties that those with intestinal issues and transplant face, all while bringing hope and offering concrete and practical ideas, suggestions, and ways to connect with others to help improve and live as best as we can through these struggles. Thank you, Intestinal Rehab & Transplant Unwrapped, for the invaluable service you provide to patients like me, to my transplant friends, our families, friends, and caregivers. I hope more patients and their families and friends can gain as much from the TU resources and community as I have.”

Heather

Heather found education and support all the way through her wait for transplant to her transition back home after transplant with Intestinal Rehab & Transplant Unwrapped. 

       “Intestinal Rehab & Transplant Unwrapped provides a wealth of knowledge, support, and the ability to connect with individuals facing similar challenges. Guest speakers provide updated information in the field of intestinal rehab and transplant. The monthly Zoom support group meetings have become most beneficial to me over time. It is an open forum for all individuals regardless of phase and location of their transplant/GI centers. The friendships developed are priceless.