My husband Rivean is in need of a heart and kidney transplant.
Rivean’s health issues started as a teenager when his kidneys failed and he required extended hospitalization and dialysis. Although he was told he would be on dialysis for the rest of his life, he was able to make a full recover and live a normal, full life. He worked extensively in conservation for the Bahamas Environmental Research Center and Forfar field station on Andros Island, his home. Eventually he attended Hocking College in Ohio and returned home to work for the Bahamas National Trust and served as a local councilmen in Staniard Creek. His enthusiasm and passion for Andros are known to all, as is his famous smile!
Updates (5)
June 19, 2025
Hi everyone, this is going to be a long one.I (Shannon) know its been quite awhile since our last update. February 2nd 2025 marker one year since Rivean's heart transplant, and it has been quite a year (and then some!)In December of 2024 it was discovered through a routine biopsy and testing that there were markers in his blood that indicated some rejection of his graft. Luckily, his team caught things very early, before there had been any significant damage to his donated heart tissue. He spent 2 weeks in the hospital at that time, receiving plasmapheresis and IV medication. Since then, he has been having regular heart biopsies and 2 days of IV treatment every month.We are lucky enough to have connected with Rivean's donor family. Once I get permission, I would love to dedicate a post to him and his incredible mother. Finally, after much debate, Rivean was given to go-ahead to have a kidney transplant. Although he is eligible and at the top of the list for a deceased donor, after much research we discovered that a much better match could be gotten from a living donor (especially due to his numerous antibodies and history of rejection). So, I (Shannon) proceeded with evaluation as a donor. We were very excited that I was approved to donate after a long process! It was determined however, that I was not an ideal match for him, so my donation would go to someone else and give him a voucher for his own kidney match. On April 22nd, I donated my left kidney at Mayo Clinic. We were able to stay at the Gabriel House again and go home after a week. Recovery was a humbling experience but gave me so much more appreciation for all Rivean has gone through.In the middle of all of this, our daughter Alyssa graduated from high school with honors on May 24th. Kayla completed her second year of college. Emma finished middle school, and RJ completed 5th grade. We activated his "voucher" June 6th. Rivean was told that it may take up to 6 months to find a match, due to his complicated case. But, by the end of the day, we had a MATCH! Transplant surgery is now scheduled for July 9th. He will need to remain in Jacksonville for one month, if all goes well. Rivean's sister Wendy is going to come and help out, which is great as I have exhausted all of my leave at work. We welcome lots of positive thoughts and prayers that his body accepts this kidney, and that his donor's surgery goes well.
February 10, 2024
Photo Galleries (5)
Guestbook
January 19, 2024
You got this Rivean! Keep smiling that beautiful smile.
Janie Brooks
December 29, 2023
SFM is forever ❤️ Hoping for the best possible outcome for you, Shannon, and Rivean and your lovely family.
Jane O’Leary
December 23, 2023
Sorry to hear about these health issues. Wishing Rivean a speedy recovery!
Anonymous
