Why wear a ribbon?

"To support all Vietnam Vets and POWs and MIAs. You are not forgotten!" (kitkatwoman)

MDJunction to me

"In the 3 months I have been with MDJunction I have developed a sense of calmness. I now friends who do not judge me because I have been a mental mess at times. It is such a good feeling to have friends I can tell my deepest thoughts and always get back to me with their support. I have never seen a therapist for long periods of time. Right or wrong, this is the best therapy possible for me. Thanks Roy for getting this up and running and making such a difference in my life. Sara" (saralaurie)

more testimonials

Mikealpha1

Thoughts: started July, 2010. Listed July, 2007, Henry Ford Hospital, Detroit. Listed Integris Baptist Medical Center, OK City, September, 2009. Transplanted February, 2011.

Donor Family Letter

Mar 23 2012

I just got back from taking my youngest two on a 1365 mile round trip visit to "Aunt" Kara, their foster mom before we adopted them. Considering that just over a year ago driving 3 miles to the grocery store was out of the question, it was pretty neat.

And on arriving home --- THE LETTER! A nice letter from the spouse and daughter of my donor. They are gratified to hear that their loved one's liver is able to bring me a fuller life. The donor was a lifelong nurse -- no wonder I love my nurses so much. The donor and spouse were married, get this -- 46 YEARS! So if anyone wonders if they are too old to be a donor, this old liver is doing just fine!

I am truly blessed.

Previous diary posts by mikealpha1:

Letter forthcoming
First Birthday
Another piece to the puzzle.
The day of "the call" Feb 15, 2011.
Profile Picture

My first Thnaksgiving.
Lab Results
What else does a transplant mean.
Do you have to be so happy?
Cirrhosis a Disease?

Comments (4) Add Comment

written by prayer, March 23, 2012

how great to be able to drive that far again and with the kids

also what a great story about your donor, thank you for sharing!!

written by sadlystillsane, March 24, 2012

Mike,
What a touching story about your letter! That must have been another priceless gift...by way of your donor. And thanks for sharing about the age of your new liver, it is absolutely imperative that people know that age is not neccessarily going to rule out donation of organs. I still hope I can at least donate my corneas if nothing else, if things were to go wrong.
What a great uplifting story. And the driving too, good for you...no police involved this time I assume, well except for your wifi stop maybe LOL smilies/grin.gif

written by teacherpam, March 25, 2012

I'm so happy for you; it sounds like a wonderful experience all the way around!

written by 1polarbear, March 26, 2012

OH a good trip all around! I love road trips!! and the letter just had to be received at such a grand time!