The major aim of transplantation is to enable you to resume a normal or near-normal lifestyle. This includes resuming work and enjoying leisure activities.
Many people want to take a holiday after the Transplant Team has given them clearance. This is both welcomed and encouraged.
If you wish to travel, especially overseas or to a remote area, you need to make some extra plans. Check with the Transplant Team first, because there are special problems if you want to travel in some countries.
1. Ensure you have enough supply of medications to last for the duration of your holiday. You should carry extra in case some are destroyed.
2. If travelling overseas, put some medications in your luggage and carry spare stock in your hand luggage. This is in case of loss or theft of luggage.
3. Carry identification at all times including a letter explaining your medical condition and listing your medications.
4. You should make a note of where local hospitals are in case of a problem and have a contact number for RPAH to give them if you need to.
5. NEVER travel with a depleted stock of drugs - this is both irresponsible and dangerous.
6. You should travel overseas with some form of travel insurance that covers you for illness associated with your transplant. You might find it very difficult, if not impossible, to obtain such insurance coverage. You should be aware that overseas medical treatment can be very costly.
7. Check with the doctors on the Transplant Team before receiving any vaccinations.
ALWAYS REMEMBER TO PLAN AHEAD.