Rest, Tests and Blessings

     Summer is my favorite season and even though it is hot outside, I love this time of year.  School dismissed just over 2 weeks ago and I am extremely thankful for some time to rest and reduce the amount of stress in my life. 

     Next Monday, I prepare for kidney function tests. Tuesday I will have the tests completed, see Dr. Falk on the afternoon of July 10 and receive test results at the appointment.  When I saw him May 1, my kidney function was stable from February at 22%.  22% was a major increase from 15% in December.  As I have mentioned before, I have difficulty with remaining tired, dry mouth and a consistent metal taste in my mouth.  It would not hurt my feelings one bit next week if Dr. Falk told me I needed a transplant the next day.  Actually now that I say that, I don't really  mean the next day. In all seriousness, I know God has perfect timing for when the transplant will occur.  

      Angela Oldham is the top person on the potential donor list and should be tested in August.  I will have to begin dialysis if I don't have a donor at the time I need a transplant.  If a donor is in place, long term dialysis will not be necessary.  Please pray that Angela or others who are potential donors will be a match for a transplant. 

      I received wonderful news today in the mail from HelpHOPELive.  HelpHOPELive is the non-profit organization which holds the funds we have raised for transplant expenses.  $1,000 has been deposited into my account from the organization.  This is the SECOND $1,000 grant  I have received from HelpHOPELive!  The grant is issued for each $10,000 we raise. We have raised just over $28,000 from fundraising events and gifts from individuals. At the current time, we do not have any fundraising events scheduled, but greatly appreciate everyone who has contributed in numerous ways thus far.  You may view my page keying in  www.HelpHOPELive.org, click on find a patient, key in my first and last name and then click on kidney for type of transplant. You should then be on my page.  Please take time to read the appeal letter from Ronnie. 
    Much thanks to so many who have prayed for me as I go through this journey.  I tremendously appreciate the support of many friends, family members and strangers.  May God continue to Bless Each of You!

    

June 14

 

       Today has been a phenomenal day with a fundraising event at "You Define Art."   One year ago,  June 14 was vastly different.  I went to UNC for the first kidney biopsy since experiencing renal failure in 1988.  My kidney function had been decreasing and lab values were concerning to Dr. Falk, my nephrologist. Dr. Falk wanted me to go in for a biopsy as soon as I finished the school year. I was rather anxious about having a kidney biopsy because in 1988, there were complications and I received 4 units of blood. (Back in the day before there were many restrictions about donating blood because of AIDS).   I remember on top of being very ill from renal failure,  losing blood and receiving transfusions was another challenge to overcome.  I had been told the schedule of events for the day and to expect to remain at the hospital for 10-15 hours.  Ronnie and I  arrived around 7:30 am and expected to go home around 6 pm at the earliest.  After checking in, I went to the lab for blood work.  Next was an ultrasound of my kidneys at the radiology department..  Of course, lots of waiting in the lobby in between tests.  When it was time to go to the "holding room" before the biopsy, Dr. Nachman, a nephrologist asked me to sit down and talk with him. That should have been my first sign that something was wrong.  Dr. Nachman stated that the ultrasound revealed that both kidneys had deteriorated to the point that there was any tissue to obtain for a biopsy.  I remember sitting in disbelief of the words he was telling me.  Not having a biopsy ever even crossed my mind.  He attempted to contact Dr. Falk, but little did we know that he was having emergency heart surgery. 

      A lot has happened since June 14, 2013.  I began the journey for transplant last fall and greatly appreciate the prayers and support of countless individuals.  There is no way I could get by without the support of each of you.  My next appointment at UNC with Dr. Falk is July 10 and I will go in for tests a few days before that.  Thankfully, I am on summer break and look forward to getting some rest.

       Several months ago, Ashley coordinated a fundraising event at "You Define Art" in Smithfield.  46 others joined me today by painting decorative items.  Today, June 14, 2014 has been such a wonderful day and we had a blast painting!  Thanks to everyone who came and those who ordered items to be painted.  I have included a few pictures from today.




My Daughter Ashley and Daughter-In-Law Kelsey

                                     



Friends: Daryl and Gina





Co-Workers: Katie, Bann and Nelly

 

Friend: Jill