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)
July 10, 2025
He did it!7/10/25 UpdateRivean is doing good, all things considered. His kidney arrived later than expected due to the transport vehicle blowing a tire, along with some nasty weather. His procedure took 6+ hours, into the early morning . His surgeon expected it to be long, and that it was- now his longest kidney transplant case ever and one of his most challenging. His sister Wendy, my mom and the kids were all here for support. Rivean has had a considerable amount of pain, because of the location and size of his incision, but currently has pain medications ready when he needs them. He also got up and walked two laps with assistance. The not so great: creatinine is decreasing a bit slower than they expect, however it is improving, and his new kidney is making plenty if urine. Rivean’s sugars have been very high due to the mega dose of IV steroids and he’s on an insulin drip for now. That means hourly fingersticks for him, which he is definitely not fond of. His amazing transplant cardiologist, Dr Lyle, and our favorite NP Hanna came by just to check in on him. Dr Lyle is quite literally the reason Rivean is still here with us today and I cannot begin to explain how much she means to us. We are grateful for all of the check-ins, love and support, and we draw lots of strength from that.
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.
Photo Galleries (8)
Guestbook
July 9, 2025
Thank you so much Rivean for always being willing to help me fix things in my prior home. THANK YOU, Shannon, for allowing him to do so.
I pray that this upcoming operation today be a complete success and that Rivean is able to get back to living a cherished life with you and his family.
Please accept this donation from myself and Rivean's friend, my brother, Dwight Grant. All our love and prayers.
Zita Collins
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
