October 15th - 21 Years & Counting!!

[WYOAnne]

Hi all!

This is the day, 21 years ago (1999), that changed my LIFE FOREVER!!! It's my MIRACLE DAY! Yes, it's the day I got the CALL for a kidney transplant. It seems like a long time ago, and yet seems like just yesterday.

I have a life, thanks to a family who was grieving for their 16 year old son, but thought of others and he became my donor. I am in touch with this amazing family and have let them know how grateful I am. Early on, his Mom sent me a picture of her son, my donor, Ryan. I am so thankful!

It's because of Ryan, I have seen my daughters marry, I have grandsons that I see as often as I can, my husband and I travel and in 2016 we moved out West to Wyoming. I thank God everyday for my fantastic GIFT of LIFE!

Many of you have asked me for advice?@# I am no expert, but this is what I have learned...

1) Find a good doctor, most importantly one you trust and believes what you tell him/her.

2) Always be your own Advocate. You know your body better than anyone and know when something isn't quite right. Tell your doctor and don't give up till you know what is going on.

3) If your choose a transplant or maybe you stabilize your CKD, remember to LIVE. Yes, live life! Enjoy! Having a positive attitude has guided me well.

I am including a recent picture taken of my college roommate and I sitting by Lake Marie in the Snowy Mountains in Southern Wyoming, elevation 10,500 ft. I am the one on the right, my hair hasn't turned grey yet. Ha, ha.

Take care and stay well! Thank you!

[bakermaker222]

I am so happy for you. You deserve this. I have had my kidney a little over a year. I, too, am so grateful . I feel wonderful. Thanks for sharing your story

[WYOAnne NKF Ambassador in reply to bakermaker222]

Thank you so much! For some, I do think it is luck of the draw. I am so fortunate and try to LIVE each day as a blessing from GOD!!

Take care and stay well!

[bdbo]

Congratulations! I am so happy for the many beautiful life experiences you have had and will have! I have my moms kidney for 26 years now and your story, advice, and gratitude resonates with me deeply. Thank you for sharing!

[Hidden]

Congratulations. Your positive attitude and zest for life is an inspiration. Happy Anniversary and many more. BTW, you look great.

[maximina]

Many blessings on the special day. My 36 year old son is on the wait list for a transplant and is on PD for a year already. He was diagnosed 7 years ago with FSGS (focal segmental glomuro sclerosis). You are an inspiration, I will share your story with my son. He never complains. Take care and God's best to you.

[WYOAnne NKF Ambassador in reply to maximina]

Thank you for your kind words. I also was diagnosed with FSGS. I was told that it could effect my transplant - but so far so good. Best of luck to you and your son!

Take care

[Lionkin]

Congratulations & thanks for well written note, it definitely provides inspiration & hope for the community of KT recipients - myself in 15th month. The 3 points mentioned are the essential guideline to a successful Transplant in my view too. Of course - I hope to see my grand children & spend quality time with them - (our physician son who is on the fore front of covid -19 fight just got engaged to a wonderful girl !)

[Herkidney]

Congratulations!

[anne627]

Lots of good wishes for your continued good health and you should have your transplant for many more years. I have my transplant 26 years. You are an inspiration to all of us, Anne.