It will be six years since my transplant on July 28, 2005. A lot has happened including the birth of two granddaughters, the acquisition of a son-in-law, quitting my job, new friends, the loss of friends, family problems but most importantly, understanding myself and realizing that God gave me the chance for a new life and it is time I took ownership of that gift and used it as ordained.
I love talking to people, sharing their life experiences and learning what they like to share about their families. Sharing experiences with people who have experienced life altering things such as ESRD, cancer, etc. is an honor. My experience is mostly with kidney patients. The fears that are experienced with the onset of dialysis and the many decisions that need to be made are mind boggling. The fear of not knowing what to expect can actually be debilitating. I have been trying to educate ESRD patients for six years and I hope I have impacted a life or two along the way. I experienced the fears, frustrations, and even with all the knowledge I have gained over the years, I am still learning.
My transplant was a truly miraculous thing and I can't begin to imagine how anyone can go through that without feeling the Hand of God. I was 55 at the time of the transplant and with God's help have made it through with no problems. Labs are always good and the kidney works well. I only wish I could share this miracle with the family of the donor. I have had contact with his mother but they wish to keep contact minimal. I can understand they're feelings and respect them. My miracle was their loss and that never leaves me. While the transplant has presented only minor issues it has been plagued with depression that at times has seemed insurmountable. The loss of my parents last year compounded by the depression led me to say things that never should have been said. The help of a wonderful therapist, words of wisdom from a niece and the grace of God have allowed me to forgive myself and brought forth a healing that can't be described. I only wish the family involved would experience the healing I have, both physically and mentally. All this really does bring me to a point.
Will I go back to work again? Probably not, this time by myself and my family has done wonders for me. I am admitting I have gotten away from educating ESRD patients and now vow to get back to that in any way I can. Hopefully I can again get in contact with kidney patients or those people that are feeling lost, frustrated, scared and have lost hope that they can experience a normal life once diagnosed with a life-altering disease. If anyone were to actually read this, please feel free to contact. A friend lives here
Until later,
Linda
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