Posted 11/30/2009 8:06 AM (GMT -7)
Centermen1189
As you most likely know many of the things on your list are not good for anyone let alone someone on a heart transplant list.
These are not absolute guidelines, since each transplant center is allowed to set its own rules for who is eligible. If you don't qualify, read this.
You must be less than 69 years old when put on the waiting list
You must show no evidence of active infections or cancer at time of transplant
You must show no evidence of disease affecting arterial circulation to your brain or legs (significant underlying disease in major arteries lowers chances of long-term survival after transplant)
Results of your physical evaluation tests must be considered adequate
You must be psychologically "suitable"
You must fully understand the risks and requirements for taking medications
You must be committed to actively participating in the rehab process after transplant
You must not have smoked or used alcohol for at least 3 months before being put on the transplant waiting list, and you must be trusted not to smoke or drink afterward
You cannot be overweight
You must not have dental work in progress
Your health insurance must verify that your heart transplant costs will be covered!
Your brother is young and he may be having an extremely difficult time adjusting to the fact that he has such a critical medical condition. I hope that he has a therapist. If he is doing the things you suspect, he may be jeopardizing his place on the transplant list depending on the facility that he receives his care from.
I hope you can find him the support he needs and that he will accept help.
Take care,
Kitt