Much of what we work or play at has something to do with others. These may be friends, acquaintances, work colleagues, classmates, neighbors, lovers, and family. The nourishment that we give and receive from those around us is immeasurable. Much research has shown that satisfying relations with others has both physical and emotional health benefits. We fulfill our social, intellectual and sexual needs in part, by those with whom we interact.
You have likely heard it said that serious illness will either draw people together or pull them apart. This has been our experience when working with organ transplant candidates and recipients. It is difficult to imagine how serious illness and transplant could not have some effect on our relationships with those around us. Throughout this book, and particularly in chapter seven (Working with Others), we emphasize the importance of your relations with those around you. We encourage in all discussions, an approach that can ease interpersonal tension and solidify your relations with others.
However, we also stress that some of your friends may find it difficult to deal with illness or other aspects of your situation. With some, you may have to accept that they are not able to interact comfortably with you. Either you or they may become ill at ease in the relationship. It has often been said that we find out who our real versus fair-weather friends are when life challenges us most.