March is National Kidney Month. The average cost of a kidney transplant in the United States ranges from $300,000 to $500,000. This figure includes pre-transplant evaluations, the surgery itself, post-operative care, immunosuppressant medications, and follow-up appointments. Programs like CT Paid Leave can help with up to 12 weeks of income replacement while you heal from major surgery.

Nick Arsenault is a seasoned nurse who's navigated his own two kidney transplants, all while continuing to hold down his job. Nick talks about the challenges he faced physically and emotionally during the process, and complications that came up during his fight with kidney disease. Nick used CT Paid Leave twice and considered it to be crucial to his healing process, allowing him time away from work so he could focus on his health. He utilized CT Paid Leave for his second transplant to supplement his company's short-term disability.  He considered the program to be a lifeline, because he was able to cover his bills while he was at home recovering. He also talks about the importance of asking for help if you are struggling with the reality of your health crisis. He talks about his journey with therapy to help with the emotional toll of undergoing dialysis and facing a kidney transplant. He now tells his patients that is it important not to neglect your mental health, because it is key to your overall health. Nick is currently using intermittent leave under the CT Paid Leave program to deal with issues that developed during his second transplant. He talks about living with a chronic health condition and the need for ongoing medical appointments and medications. Nick is now 2 years out from his last transplant and says he is thankful every day.

To find out more information about Hartford Hospitals Transplant program ; Transplant | hartfordhospital.org | Hartford Hospital | Hartford, CT

To get in touch with the Kidney Foundation of CT: NKF Serving Connecticut | National Kidney Foundation

For more information or to apply for benefits go to: CT Paid Leave

https://ctpaidleave.org/s/?language=en_US



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