At one point I didn't think I would live and extra year so to be able to celebrate two years is truly a huge accomplishment. My one year anniversary proved I was a survivor and that I made it past the most critical year post transplant. This two year anniversary proved that I have a long life ahead of me and will create new memories for years to come. I no longer consider myself as "the sick transplant patient". I am now "the girl who had a transplant and has a better life because of it." I never understood how people go through horrible things and later say that they wouldn't change a thing. But now I am that person. My life is so much better than it was before transplant. I wake up each day so thankful for what I have. My friends and family are now more important than they ever were. I have met some wonderful people through this experience and some crazy ones too! I still have some bad days but the good far outweigh the bad. It has taken me and my body awhile to adjust to this new life but I have never been happier and I wouldn't change a thing!
I wish I could some how express how grateful I am to my donor and all the donor families out there. Words just cannot do justice. Thank you from the bottom of my heart and soul. I do my best to honor my donor each and everyday.
PS... Just because I am no longer the sick transplant patient does not mean I no longer accept gifts to celebrate my extra years/months of life. Presents are always welcome!
PPS... I had my two year checkup at CPMC and I am healthy as a horse! I love my new doctor and my liver is doing great. I brought the ICU nurses, Doctors and staff baskets of treats to celebrate the big day. Here are some pictures of me and Tania, the NP that helped save my life. The picture of the left was a month after transplant and the one on the right was last Thursday. I laugh looking at the picture on the left... I thought I looked great back then! HA... I was as grey as my shirt! So glad to have my normal skin color back!
