Today, November 5th. Marked the three month mark since my kidney transplant on August 5th 2021.
The road to recovery has been an uphill battle. Through the unconditional love and support from family and I've survived those most challenging moments post-transplant.
I've been meaning to blog earlier and most importantly - more often. My mind and body has to be in a good space in order to write optimistically - which is a big part of who I am.
On Wednesday evening, the long-awaited call came. "...Stay close to the phone. We might have a kidney for you". Unfazed, my husband an I continued watching one of our favorite shows - Animal Kingdom on Demand.
Though I had been nesting (much like a female closer to giving birth), I have refused to get my hopes to high regarding a kidney. My existence has been staying in the moment. Not get too worked up on things that haven't happened.
About an half hour later, second call came in. "How soon an you get here?"
I pride myself on always being ready for whatever gifts life brings. So packing was simplified. I had already had most of my necessities in an area where everything could be easily accessed.
We left for the hospital around 10:15pm. Arrived around 10:45 or 11:00pm.
By the time we arrived and set in the hospital ER waiting room, it all began to sink in. "I'm getting a kidney today". Immediately I began to call those who I felt would be interested and supportive. Made sure I told everyone I loved and appreciated them. Wanted all to know that I was at peace with whatever happens.
Oddly enough. I didn't feel fearful or anxious. I was calm and so was my husband. I reminded him of my request in terms of possible death. He then reminded me, "I know. You've made your request known since we lost our [first daughter]".
Eventually my name was called. I was relieved my husband could accompany me. Especially with current pandemic due to Covid.
I remained relaxed throughout process. Labs done and a few other essential procedures. I continued to knit/crochet during wait times. Suddenly, I was wheeled in to surgery. Said my goodbye's to my husband. Reminded him to keep the kids on track to accomplish their goals in spite of. Do not use my health issues as a reason to quit or fail. Everyone's life must carry on.
Know, by the time I was wheeled in to this tiny operating room. It was the next morning (Aug. 5th). Room was filled with seemingly professional, competent and confident surgery team. This fact may have helped keep fear or anxiety at bay.
Now, I must admit. I saw what looked like pickled pig feet in a jar across/directly in front of my vision. I'm thinking, "I know surgeon didn't just place this organ going into my body in front of me".
I then forced myself to focus on other things. Like, I had a female anesthesiologist. I was meaning to tell her - it takes a while for me to fall asleep. Before I knew it, I was out.
More in another blog
til Next time,
Sage
