She Won the Lottery…
I have the honor of working with a very special woman, Ella. She was the recipient of a kidney, given in the most heartbreaking but generous gift of a teenage girl’s parents. They turned their tragedy into a gift of a normal life for a stranger. Here are Ella’s words: “15 years and 7 months ago I got the call. I can remember my husband’s words today, he said, “I thought you had won the lottery.” I did, the lottery of life and that’s so much better than millions of dollars…It has been almost 16 years and I still think of my donor and her family unselfish act.”
If you haven’t already, sign the back of your driver’s license today! I just had to share her story and quote, so moving and impactful. Thank you, Ella.
Recovery Update:
Wow! It’s officially been a week since the surgery and there have been both good and bad days. And good mornings and bad afternoons. But I think that is normal with all recoveries from surgery. I made the mistake of doing too much the first few days home and now I’m listening to some wise advice: Rest more in hopes of a faster recovery.
My mom, dad, husband and friends have been incredible and I’m the luckiest donor to have them in my life. They have catered to my every need by making me comfortable, making meals, and taking care of the kids. All I do is sit back and reap the benefits of good food and watching my kids play. Life is so hectic and busy, I honestly can’t think of the last time I’ve stopped and just enjoyed them (without worring about cooking dinner, homework, baths, bedtime, etc.). Ironically, this has given me that opportunity.
Am I still in pain? Yes. Am I frustrated? Yes. Is it still worth it? Yes! Larry is keeping me posted and he is doing amazing. He is fascinated by how much energy he has compared to before. As my Aunt Shirley put it, “He hasn’t felt normal in so long, he forgot what it felt like.” She summed it up in just one sentence, he just wants to be normal again. Have a normal life.
Here’s to being normal again! Take care, Jeni Lind
