Why can't I just have the transplant and get on with my life? Is it necessary to think about all this stuff?
It is not absolutely necessary. Many people have successfully recovered from transplantation without considering the ideas that we discuss in this book. But your approach may not suit everybody. Some will find it difficult to deal with the sense of powerlessness that may arise during serious illness or transplant. It may benefit them to know in what ways they can take charge and work actively in the service of their health. Others are surprised to find that they react in unfamiliar and unexpected ways to their situation. They may find solace by reading that others have reacted similarly.
You may see no reason to think about the ideas contained in Surviving Transplantation. But someone else may. Your husband, wife, a friend, or another may relate to a different approach to transplant. You cannot assume that one approach is for everybody. You cannot even be sure that you will not change your mind later. When a problem arises, it is only human nature to first sit back and hope that the problem resolves itself soon. In our experience, it is the rare and very lucky person who can comfortably negotiate transplantation and recovery using only this approach.