Day 151

            Yesterday, Monday July 26, 2010 was the 5 month mark since my transplant and I'm feeling great. My ability to do just about anything is increasing, albeit for a limited amount of time. I guess those doctors know what they're talking about. I will recover from this. Thanks to everyone for their support  and prayers. And a special thanks to the family of my donor. I know it was a tough decision, but for those of us on the receiving end it was a life-saving decision and for that I thank you. I am also sorry for your loss of a loved one. I can't imagine the pain you have endured. I promise to do what I can to not waste the second chance at life that you have afforded me.
             Some days I wake up and forget what my body has gone through and then I feel the dull pain in my chest and I am reminded of the miracle that I received. It is quite astonishing how far our ability to extend life has come.At the same time I am reminded that it is truly a miracle. Everyday I think about the day after the operation being in ICU and seeing a lot of commotion in the room next to mine.It was a gentleman who had a transplant, but didn't wake up after the surgery. A couple of days later they removed him from the life support equipment and he passed away. So yes, I feel it is a miracle that I received my lungs with few complications.
           We all have challenges, but I think sometimes you have to stop and realize that a lot of our challenges are pretty petty. Most of all, challenges will be overcome. And remember, most of us have it pretty good and there are a lot of people with bigger challenges than we face.
          Keep a smile on your face and greet everyone you meet.

Day 145

It's been a little while since I added to this blog which is a good thing. I've been getting out and doing things. I still feel really good and thanks to my donor, whoever they are, I am getting somewhat back to normal. The Medications   still affect me and upset my stomach from time to time, but that is all manageable.
    I went to Charleston SC last week to visit with my sister, who has been fighting her own battle with cancer, and her husband. They  remodel ships and had a job in Charleston. They rented a house for a couple of months and invited me to visit. Had a great time. It was actually hotter and more humid than Florida. So I'm glad to be back in cool Florida. It's supposed to be 96 today.
    We had our Godson, Michael, here for the weekend. He's 19 and full of energy. I tried to keep up, but I guess I'm not quite there yet. We had a grand time and I hope he did as well. He's really a good kid and so loving.
   I need to get out and do more exercising, but it's just too hot. I've got another Lung Biopsy coming up in 3 weeks. Wish me luck.
 Take care of yourselves.

DAY 136

     Just had Clinic. Great results from the doctor and also the breathing test I took. Dr. Haddad is very pleased with my progress, as am I. As I said everyday gets better and I gain a little more energy and stamina. I left the doctor's office and went to walk the beach. What a beautiful day, nice breeze, waves are a little high and there were a lot of people on the beach. How lucky am I that I get to enjoy this beautiful area? I go back August 10th for another, regularly scheduled, lung biopsy.
     Now I have to figure out a way to start earning some money. You know that four letter word WORK. Anybody have any ideas? I'm probably the only person looking for work, so it should be easy to find a job. Yea, right!
    No profound words today. I just wanted to give an update.
Take care of yourselves.

Day 131

        I know, I'm tardy. Sorry to those of you that read this, and for those of you who don't, too bad. As you might be able to detect, I'm feeling very good. Every day does get better. Mowed the grass, edged and cleaned up all with one break today. That's a milestone! Sleep is much better also, however, I still wake every couple of hours to go to the bathroom. I believe that is because of the antibiotics, which I have 2 more months to take.
     Linda's brother Scott and his son Logan were in town for the long weekend. We had a great time. Restaurants, shopping and beach were the order of the weekend.
      I've got clinic on Monday, we'll see what the Doc says. Maybe he'll cut some of my meds. I'm ready to reduce the amount I take, but I'm not rushing things.
      Sometimes I am amazed at how lucky I am. I forget that someone thought enough of their fellow man to give up their precious organs so some others could extend their lives. Thank you to all of you that are donors and a special thanks to my donor. I am sure without this gift I would not be here. Those of you that are not donors, Think about it, you can find out more information at http://www.organdonor.gov/donor/index.htm
There is also an interesting video of a girl's journey to a 2008 double lung transplant and how she is now. I found it inspirational, but I have a different perspective. If you want to see it go to http://www.onetruemedia.com/otm_site/view_shared?p=75e4469ba801914249b0af&skin_id=701&large
      Take care and love one another!