Best News Yet!

Just got word from my donor, all his renal evaluation test have been completed and it goes to the surgical board on September 2nd at 1PM. One step closer to good health!

I'm not the most sensative guy, but this news brought a tear to my eye. The fact this ordeal is nearly over, and that someone out there is generious enough to share the gift of life.

Donor Update

Brian, my donor continues to keep my updated on the evaluation process. He just got contacted yesterday indicating all test are good and things are proceeding. We can only hope this process is coming to an end soon and we can got on with the show!

Anyway, had yet another doctor appointment today. Sounds like this form of dialysis is failing. MD wants to perform more test next month and recommend changes. Pretty upsetting news for me since I'm only focused on transplant, not hemo as option. So, it's a race to see which happens first. Although, I've vowed not go the hemo route...no matter what!

Ohhh, wanted to say thanks to Charlene and Tracy for supporting my on here! I really appreciate the words of encouragement!

Transplant bound

Not sure if anyone still reads this stuff, but I wanted to give an update on the transplant process. my donor has moved to next phase of testing, which is a test of his kidney function. I'm told the next phase is clinical consult, then the clinical board meet to determine final transplant eligibility. Once this last step is complete, the surgery is scheduled.

Things are looking good....

Let's see...this past weekend we had my donor over to the house for Sunday diner. It was great having him join my family for diner and spend time talking.

So far so good, Brian has done everything required by Emory to complete donor evaluation to this point. At this point we're waiting for Emory to contact him for phase 2 testing. Once he passes the pre-eval testing then he will be brought back in for a two day evaluation. Barring any medical issues the next step is setting a date for transplant. Keeping my fingers crossed.

I will keep posting as the process continues...right up to the day of the transplant!

Angel named Ancel

Well, I suppose it's true...good things come to those who wait. Last week, I was in need of someone to move a heavy TV from the first floor to the second. After some thought, I turned to Craigslist where I posted an ad. Several people responded with various offers, from the insanely high to just desperate replies. As I reviewed the many offers, one caught my attention. An arrangement was made with "Brian" from Ancel Delivers.

It's always feels risky inviting strangers into your home, but I felt instantly comfortable with Brian when he arrived. I could tell right away I made the right choice in movers.

After the move was done, I proceed to write a check for payment. Brian offered his drivers license and business card to complete the check. I noticed Brian was listed as an organ donor. Just making conversation I mentioned that I was in need of a kidney transplant. Brian seemed interested in learning about the process so I explained in some detail. Still impressed and happy with the TV moves, we parted ways.

Later that afternoon, I received a text message from Brian indicating he was the same blood type and willing to donate. After reading the message three or four times to confirm what I was reading was correct, and collecting my thoughts I replied. We went back and forth exchanging information and my gratitude for this most charitable gift.

True to his word, Brian contacted my transplant coordinators and began the process. Once again it's out of hands at this point, although I feel extremely hopeful this was meant to be.

It never fails to amaze me how giving some people are in the world. Words can not express how blessed and fortunate I feel to have this man make this beautiful, life giving gift.

I look forward to updating this blog with more good news soon.

Been a little while so here goes...

Ok, my friend was tested but was unable to donate to due his own issues with blood pressure. I have however gained my full clearance (both financial and medical) for the transplant. I was listed as status 7 until recently. My kidney doctor pulled some strings to have my surgical BMI number increased a bit, along with my own weight loss cleared the way.

So here I sit cleared for take off without a good donor...

Otherwise, my health has been decent and dialysis is moving along without issues. The biggest draw back to this condition is fatigue. I look forward to the day when I can run all day long without getting tired.

Let's see what else...ohh we got a puppy recently. He's 12 weeks old at this point, black lab mixed with something else..not sure. Puppies name is "Othello". He is very mild mannered, good with kids, and seems to be quickly adjusting to our family. I think Othello is good for my blood pressure..at least when he not doing something he's not suppose to be doing.

O+ DONOR FOUND !!!

Happy days...a close friend has offered to donate a kidney. He will conduct the phone screen tomorrow and hopefully move forward with the actual physical exams. With any luck maybe have the transplant before March.

This gift has made me reflect on this whole ordeal...made me stronger and cherish life more than ever before.

I will post again once I know more.