Thank you so much for visiting Mom's support page. We are reaching out to share some big news: Josephine recently underwent a kidney transplant! She is currently recovering at the hospital at UW-Madison and will be discharged this coming weekend, when Steve will safely drive her back home to Chicago. Once home, she will navigate the critical early weeks of post-op recovery alongside him and a 24/7 designated caregiver. While she is doing well, her new anti-rejection medications require a highly controlled environment. To protect her delicate immune system and support her new kidney, her medical team has prescribed a highly specific, renal-friendly diet - high in protein for healing, but strictly limited in potassium and phosphorus. Because she requires lifelong immunosuppression, all food preparation must also follow rigorous hygiene protocols to prevent any risk of infection. The absolute best way to support our family during this transition is by helping us secure safe, specialized groceries via the Wishlist, dropping off a carefully prepared meal via the Care Calendar once she is settled at home, or simply leaving a warm note to lift her spirits while she finishes her hospital stay. If you are able to drop something off next week or beyond, please ensure all deliveries are brought directly up the stairs and left right at her second-floor apartment door. She has a strict postoperative restriction against lifting objects heavier than 20 pounds, so doorstep delivery is essential right now. Knowing she has such a wonderful local community ready to welcome her back to Chicago brings our family peace of mind while I coordinate from California. We are incredibly grateful for your love, patience, and support as we all adjust to this new chapter. Love, Debbie & Family
Please review these medical guidelines carefully before signing up for a meal or sending groceries. Because Mom is starting lifelong immunosuppression and a strict renal diet, we must closely adhere to the following to keep her safe: Strict Dietary Restrictions High Protein, Renal-Friendly: She needs at least 66 grams of protein daily for surgical healing. Lean meats, fish, poultry, eggs, and protein shakes/bars are wonderful. Kidney Protection: Meals must be customized for low potassium, low phosphorus, and low sodium. Dangerous Interactions (CRITICAL): Absolutely NO grapefruit, pomegranate, Seville oranges, or starfruit (whole or juice). These interact dangerously with her anti-rejection medications. Allergies: She is highly allergic to Amoxicillin, but thankfully has no known food allergies. Rigorous Food Safety Her immune system is extremely delicate right now. Please help us prevent infection by: Thoroughly washing your hands, kitchen surfaces, and all fresh produce. Cooking all meats, poultry, and eggs completely well-done (no rare meats or runny yolks). Using only pasteurized dairy and juices. Delivery Instructions (Starting Next Week) Address: Chicago, IL (The full address and apartment number will be provided in your confirmation email once you sign up for a date on the Care Calendar). Timing: Steven is driving her home from the hospital this weekend, so meal drop-offs will officially begin next week once they are settled. Doorstep Only: Please note that Mom lives in a second-floor apartment (requiring stairs), and has a strict postoperative restriction against lifting anything over 20 pounds. When you receive the address and drop off your meal, leaving items in lightweight, easy-to-carry containers right at her door is absolutely essential.