Sheila Perry, a 87-year-old Wheaton local, has become the oldest known female in Illinois to undergo a successful kidney transplant. The transplant, which took place on March 6 at Northwestern Medicine, has given Perry a new lease on life.

A New Beginning

Perry, a retired nonprofit executive, is grateful for the opportunity to return to her vibrant life, filled with family, travel, music, and art. She lives alone by choice and walks several miles a day, determined to make the most of her life.

According to transplant surgeons, Perry’s successful transplant is a testament to the evolving medical field. With life expectancies increasing in the United States and globally, doctors are now considering older candidates in good health for transplants.

Overcoming Challenges

Perry’s journey to the transplant was not easy. She was initially rejected by another area hospital’s transplant program and had to undergo extensive health evaluations before being considered for the transplant. However, with the support of her family and medical team, Perry was able to overcome these challenges and receive the transplant she needed.

Transplant surgeons are now honing new techniques to make transplants more possible for older individuals. These techniques include using spinal anesthesia instead of general anesthesia, which can have more adverse effects on patients over 65.

A Brighter Future

With her new kidney, Perry can now look forward to a brighter future. She plans to spend more time with her nephews, visit museums and symphonies in Chicago, and travel the world. Perry’s story is an inspiration to many, and her determination to make the most of her life is a testament to the human spirit.

Original reporting: Texarkana Gazette — read the source article.