Trotting Trainer Micael Melander Receives Kidney and Pancreas Transplants

Micael Melander, a 55-year-old trotting trainer and driver, has undergone a successful operation at Sahlgrenska Hospital in Gothenburg, Sweden, receiving both a kidney and pancreas transplant. The extensive six-hour surgery offers hope for a healthier future after decades battling diabetes and declining kidney function.

Years-Long Health Struggle

Melander has lived with type 1 diabetes for 40 years, leading to several health complications. His kidney function had deteriorated to just 8-10% capacity this past summer, necessitating a kidney transplant. During the operation, doctors similarly transplanted a latest pancreas, potentially eliminating his long-term battle with diabetes, which he described as the “root cause of everything.”

Successful Surgery and Recovery

The surgery took place over the weekend, and Melander reported on his Facebook page that all values looked good and he was able to take a short walk after the procedure. He described feeling “completely exhausted” but optimistic about his recovery. Doctors are pleased with his progress.

“The way I feel right now, it’s like a bag of skates in Baghdad,” Melander told Trav365, acknowledging the physical strain of the operation. “It is tiring for the body when you are subjected to an operation like this.” Despite the exhaustion, he expressed relief, stating, “The first thing was to wake up and then I thought: ‘I’m still alive’.”

Recovery Timeline and Future Outlook

Melander anticipates a recovery period of two to three months, focusing on regaining strength and adapting to life with his new organs. He emphasized the importance of exercise following abdominal surgery. He hopes to return home within 10 to 14 days.

Previous Health Challenges

Two years prior to this transplant, Melander suffered a serious accident at Bollnästravet, resulting in four brain bleeds. He expressed gratitude for surviving that incident, noting he “might as well have been a vegetable.” In December 2018, he experienced a heart attack, prompting a reevaluation of his health, and lifestyle. Aftonbladet reported on the heart attack at the time.

Gratitude for Support

Melander expressed deep gratitude for the outpouring of support from friends, colleagues, and fans throughout Sweden and the Nordic countries. He also thanked his partner, Malin, and his staff for ensuring the smooth operation of his farm during his health challenges.

While his return to competitive trotting is still some time away, Melander remains hopeful and focused on regaining his health.