Pancreas transplant
Ivy Ashworth-Crees, a former diabetic, talks about how much better her life is since her double kidney and pancreas transplant.
"Over 30years ago, I started to have diabetes and had to go on insulin injections four times a day. I also had to work very hard on my diet to make sure I didn't eat too much sweet food.
"After about 25 years I got kidney failure, and in 2003 I had to go on kidney dialysis, which was very uncomfortable.
"It wastiring having to do it four times a day, as well as having the diabetes injections four times a day. I felt like my life was on hold.
"I was on kidney dialysis for two years when they put me on the list to have a kidney transplant. The surgeon suggested that I could probably benefit from a kidney and a pancreas transplant, which meant I wouldn't be diabetic any more.
"When I got the phone call to say that I was going to Manchester for the transplant, I was absolutely hysterical. I was very emotional thrilled and terrified.
"When I came round after the operation, I was in intensive care. I stayed there for about three or four days, then they took me to the main ward.
"The most difficult part was getting out of bed on to my feet, and starting to walk. They walked me up and down the ward for weeks until my legs got strong enough. That was very, very difficult the pain was very bad. But it's been worth it.
"The doctor asked me to try toreduce my weight, so I joined the gym. I enjoy swimmingand I think it's helping me to keep a bit more active. The only problem is that I can't walk too far.
"It's very, very important that I take the immunosuppressant drugs. If I don't take them, my body may reject the kidney and pancreas. I have to take them for the rest of my life.
"My life's changed such a lot. I now take it for granted that I can eat what I want, including chocolates!
"I'm back at work, I don't have an injection after my meals, I don't have to rush home for dialysis, and my kidneys and pancreas are working well.
"I feel blessedthat I've been through this operation and it's worked very well."
Find out why pancreas transplants are carried out, what they involve, and the potential risks.
Find out about when a pancreas transplant may be considered, how you will be assessed to determine if one is suitable, and who might not be able to have one.
You will be referred for an assessment if a pancreas transplant is thought to be a suitable option.
Find out what happens during a pancreas transplant and islet transplant.
Find out what happens after a pancreas transplant, including how long you may need to stay in hospital and the ongoing care you'll need.
Find out about the possible complications of a pancreas transplant, including rejection of the donor pancreas and side effects from immunosuppressant medication.
Ivy Ashworth-Crees, who used to have diabetes, talks about how much better her life is since her double kidney and pancreas transplant.