Recap: About Me-Part IV-Final Post

Picking up from the previous post: About Me-Part III......here is Part IV-the final post.

It was Sunday night before the transplant. I was really sick, and didn't know much of what was going on around me. I remember my Dad and brother coming up to see me that night, but that was it. I don't remember anything from that point forward. Evidently, the decision was made to precede with the living donor transplant. Although my parents claim they told me about it, I have no memory of that and seriously had no idea I was about to be transplanted. I think this was another blessing from God, as I didn't have to worry or experience anxiety like most everyone else would before a major surgery like this. God held my hand through this and took all the pain away. The doctors "gave" me just a few days to live, so in order to save my life, this is what had to be done. On Monday, things kept getting worse, and my CF doctor decided that I needed to go ahead and be put on the ventilator. The transplant was scheduled for Wednesday morning at the University of Southern California in Los Angeles. I would fly by MedJet Tuesday morning along with my Mom and my other donor. My Dad would fly out there with our back-up donor, and my donor's brother, would fly out as well.

On Monday, my mom and my other donor had to undergo numerous tests at UAB, so a nurse, who was also a close friend, stayed with me Monday. My CF doctor came in to discuss putting me on the ventilator and told me that about 50% of CF patients who go on the ventilator are not able to come back off of it. My response to that (as I was told...remember I have no recollection of this)was "That means that 50% DO come off of it, right?). I held my CF Dr's hand as they took me down to ICU and prepared me for the ventilator. My Dr. let me use his cell phone (or someones..not sure who's it was) to call my Mom, who was at UAB at this time. My Dad was preparing for the trip to California (there was a lot that needed to be arranged). I called my Mom and told her "Bye" and that I would see her soon with my new lungs. My Mom said she could hardly hold herself up at that time, being away from me, and knowing that there was a pretty good chance of me not making it through the night.

Tuesday morning came along, and the doctors called my parents early that morning. The plan was for everyone to meet at the airport, but plans changed. They didn't think I was going to be stable enough to transport. My CO2 level had already risen to about 4 times normal and things didn't look good. My Dad told me the weather was horrible that morning too. My Dad called one of our friends (our back-up donor), who was also my parents Sunday school teacher. My Dad told him to just pray, pray. This guy, when he got off the phone, called everyone he could and told them to pray. Within 10 minutes of of my Dad making that phone call, by the grace of God, things began to stabilize enough and my Dad said that I had never looked so peaceful as I did that morning. At that moment, he knew everything would be ok.

Upon arrival at USC, I was immediately sent to the ICU. Mom and my other donor had to do some more tests to prepare for the next morning. Shortly after arrival at USC, I began to deteriorate and one of the Transplant Nurse Coordinators tracked down my Mom and told her that the only way I was going to live until morning, was to be placed on ECHMO, which is a heart-lung bypass machine. This machine performed every bodily function for me. At this time, my CO2 level was 5 times normal (211). A person with this high of a CO2 level does not live. A normal CO2 level is between 35 and 40. God helped me hold on until the next morning, February 25th, 2004, and the transplant was a huge success. I was told my lungs crumbled into pieces as they were removed from my body. The surgery definitely had it's worries and concerns. Imagine from my Dad's point of view: his wife, daughter, and best friend all in surgery at the same time, and are running the risk of loosing their lives as well because of the risky surgery. But again, by the Grace of God, everything went smoothly. I made it through the surgery with "flying colors" but I wasn't out of the woods yet. The transplant team expected me to have brain damage, kidney damage, etc., because of the record CO2 level and being placed on ECHMO. Once again, God had a plan for me, and I didn't incur any of those complications.

The recovery process at USC was the most intense and painful experience, both mentally and physically. I stayed on the ventilator for about 4 more days after surgery. As soon as they took the breathing tube out, I realized I could BREATHE...one of the most awesome feelings EVER for a CF patient. Because I was so sick and weak prior to transplant, and with the addition of paralytic drugs, I was completely paralyzed afterwards. I couldn't move any part of my body by myself. This was the most frustrating thing, as I depended on everyone to do everything for me. My arms were so swollen and filled with fluid, they were too heavy for me to lift them up on my own (same goes for the feet/legs). About 2 weeks after transplant, I began to experience stomach issues. I ended up having an intestinal blockage, which required immediate surgery. This was performed about 1 month after the transplant, and in my opinion, was some of the worst pain ever experienced, even more than the transplant.

Because I was paralyzed, I had to re-learn how to walk again (yes..not just strength but even the technique of walking). It was 6 months later (in August) that I was actually able to walk on my own, without the help of a walker or wheelchair. It wasn't until October of that year that I began to drive again. It also took a long time before I could feed or bathe myself. Because of the lengthy and painful recovery process it was hard for me to realize I was improving. But I did, each and every day. We had millions of people praying for us, and an awesome team of surgeons, doctors, physical therapists, etc. at USC. I didn't think it was possible for me to walk again. But then again, God proved me wrong.

I spent 3 months in California, before returning home to Birmingham. I missed every one at home so so much, especially my brother. It was a truly hard experience but I wouldn't trade it for anything. And if you don't call this a miracle from God, then I'm not sure how you explain it. I truly am a miracle from God and are alive today to share this with others and continue to glorify him in everything I do. As of right now, I was the sickest patient USC has ever transplanted, and had a record CO2 level that anyone at USC, Children's and UAB had ever seen.

Currently, I'm doing pretty well. I have had my share of post-transplant complications in addition to several other things. But transplant complications are so much different that what CF patients experience, and in my opinion, are far easier to deal with.

I graduated from UAB in May of 2009 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Health Information Management. After graduation, i decided I wanted to go back to nursing school. I am currently in my 2nd semester of nursing school at UAB, and will graduate May of next year (2012). I received a full-academic scholarship, which was only awarded to 2 people in the program. It's a blessing that I'm able to pursue my life long dream career of becoming a nurse. Nursing school is stressful, but exciting at the same time.

So...that wraps up the Recap posts: About Me. I hope this was informative for my new readers/blog followers!

Recap: About Me-Part III

Picking off from: Recap About Me--Part II (Previous Post)

So right before I left the hospital, my CF doctor came to my room to talk to my Mother and me. I kind of had an idea of what it would be about, but didn't want to think about it. My doctor felt that I needed to be listed for a lung transplant; that there was no "bouncing back" from this and a transplant would be the only option to save my life. I denied it of course, went home, and concentrated on finishing up the school year. By the grace of God, I finished up most of the remaining school year at home, and graduated as Valedictorian with a 4.12 GPA. Graduation night was tough and not very fun. As soon as it was over, I went home, aching for the O2.

As I realized I was not getting better, I began to pray and ask God, was this what needed to be done? I cried and fought with him, hoping there was another way. I kept asking him, why me, why now? I then realized that a transplant was the only thing that was going to save my life, and God would get me through this. I immediately jumped on the decision and got evaluated and listed at the University of Alabama at Birmingham. Because I had been listed as a pediatric patient (see previous post), I had already accumulated about 2 years worth of time on the list. The thought was that I would get transplanted sooner than later, and everything would be fine.

However, that was not God's plan. I waited and waited for lungs to come along (and I actually was #1 on the list very quickly after being listed; however I have the 2nd rarest blood type and was very petite, necessitating small lungs). I prayed every day. I also started doing several independent bible studies. I wanted to be prepared and needed some comfort during this rough time. After I got listed, I really never worried about the transplant. I knew there was a possibility that I would not survive the transplant, or die shortly after. However, I had a peace about it, and was more anxious to get it over with than anything. I knew I was in God's hands, and he was in control.

My health remained stable (as stable as it could be) until about January of 2004. At this time, it definitely took a turn for the worst. I went in the hospital in late January of that year. I spent about 2 weeks in, getting the usual IV abx, PT, high calorie foods, etc. I also spent my b'day in the hospital, but had 3 surprise parties that day by different people. It was truly a fun and blessed day. I hadn't really felt any better as I was nearing the 14-day stay. I fudged a little and told everyone I was ready to go home. At this point, I did not do PFT's (lung function tests), because I was to sick. So there was no "measuring" to see if I was well enough to be discharged. I knew I probably needed to stay, but ached to spend just a few days at home, in my own bed, for possibly the last time.

So my theory came true, and I ended up back in the hospital 2 days later, in a much much worse condition. I was getting 12 liters of oxygen, albuterol aerosols every 2 hours, morphine aerosols, constant antibiotic medications, and medications to relive pain and anxiety. I knew it was serious, and knew if I didn't get a transplant soon, I would be in trouble. I don't think I realized how soon this needed to happen, as the next 1-2 weeks of events flew by very quick. I got worse pretty much every day. There may have been a day or two where I stabilized, but not much. I was only getting a couple of hours of sleep at this time, and at times, was so "out of it" I had no idea what was going on.

Because no cadaver lungs had become available, my parents discussed with my CF doctor and one from the UAB transplant team about considering a living donor transplant. Everyone decided to go ahead and prepare for a living donor transplant, but with hopes it would not come to that. I knew that they had talked about it, and many people started stepping up to be tested. But deep down, I kept thinking to myself, that it would never get to that point, and I would get cadaver lungs in no time. And I kept thinking that up until the transplant. Once again, God had a different plan than what I wanted to happen.


To Be Continued (and the next post About Me will be the last).....

Recap: About Me...Part II

So I'm picking up from where I left off. The decision was just made for me to be evaluated for a lung transplant at St. Louis Children's Hospital. I went through the evaluation process and ended up being a good candidate for lung transplantation. So I became listed in the spring of 1998 (7th grade). However, my health actually began to stabilize and hospital stays weren't quite as frequent.

Although I went in the hospital several the summer before 9th grade..... 9th grade proved to be a very successful year. We began to get calls from St. Louis stating that they had lungs for me. However, because my lung functions had improved somewhat and I felt pretty good, we passed on the lungs. At this time, if you passed on lungs more than 3 times, you had to consider going off the lung transplant list or becoming inactive. During my 9th grade year, the decision was made to be reevaluated and become inactive on the lung transplant list. Being inactive allows you to still accumulate (or it did at that time) time on the transplant list, but not actively be listed. (Note: UNOS has now changed the guidelines/criteria where placement on the lung transplant list is based on severity of illness, not accumulation of time; therefore, the sickest people are put at the top of the list)


Beginning in 9th grade, I did exceptionally well (for me, that is). I only required hospitalizations once during the summer. I was able to go through the school year without missing any school (for CF that is). It was great. I was involved in many honor societies and community service groups, and managed to maintain an above 4.0 grade point average. I really thought things were turning around! I had a great year hanging out with my friends and just enjoying life overall!

During 12th grade, I decided to go in for a tune-up during our Christmas break of the school year. I felt like i could not wait until the summer, like I had done for the 3 previous years. However, after being discharged, i knew my health was not as good as it had been and had not responded as well to the antibiotics this time. During Spring Break of my senior year in high school, my health took a turn for the worst, and there was no "bouncing" back this time. I went in the hospital E.R. during Spring break with an O2 level of around 50%, and having a very difficult time breathing. It was during this stay, that I became dependent on oxygen 24/7. Although I only spent about 3 weeks in the hospital, I was required to finish up the school year at home.

Recap: About Me Part I

So since I just celebrated my transplant anniversary and have so many new followers....I thought I would post some of my first original posts about me (with a little editing).
So..here it goes: About Me Part I.

I was born in February of 1985. I have 1 brother, who is 2 years younger, who DOES NOT have CF. I have 2 wonderful and loving parents and a very supportive family.
I was diagnosed with CF shortly after birth. I had an intestinal blockage at birth, which was the 1st indication I might have CF. I was able to live a fairly normal life until the age of about 7. At that time, I began doing CF therapies and added some additional medications. I also went in the hospital for the 1st time for a CF "tune-up." For those of you who don't know, CF patients go in the hospital for "tune-ups" where they receive IV abx (antibiotics) to help give them a boost and to feel better. CF patients have frequent lung infections, so these "tune-ups" help to halt the infections and/or make them less severe when they do happen. I was then able to wait another 3 years, until the age of 10, before I had to go back in the hospital. I've always attended a public school, and was able to have a fairly normal every day routine and life like any other kids at that time. I danced when I was little and in preschool! I started gymnastics when I was 5 years old and continued until I was 11, in the 5th grade! I LOVED gymnastics, and would have continued it if it wasn't for the g-tube placement.

At the age of 10, my CF started to get progressively worse. Hospital visits were more frequent and I was having trouble keeping up with day-to-day things, especially physical activity and weight gain. In the 5th grade, I went in the hospital about 3 times that year. I also got a feeding tube to help with gaining weight and nutrition. From about the 5th-grade until the 8th grade, hospitalizations were about every 3 or 4 months and things really started to go down hill. Beginning in 5th grade, I started wearing oxygen at night, which greatly limited slumber parties, etc., with friends. Nevertheless, I still attended a public school and was part of many school organizations including the Honor Society, advanced classes, etc. Until about the 8th grade, I never told any of my friends I had CF. They just thought I got sick frequently. My family and I were and still are very strong in our faith of Jesus Christ, which makes these situations so much easier to handle and endure. In the 8th grade, things began to change dramatically.

In January of 1998, I went in the hospital for a what was supposed to be 10-day tune up. During this stay, I "caught" the flu (yes...in the hospital), which made my health take a huge turn the wrong way. I spent 5 1/2 weeks in the hospital that time (which included my b'day and Valentines' Day). The decision was also made for me to get evaluated for a lung transplant. I had just turned 13 at this time. This was a huge shock for me and something I did NOT want to do. But I didn't have a choice and my parents made my decisions for me. In spring of that year, I traveled to St. Louis Children's Hospital to be evaluated for a double-lung transplant.

To be continued.....

7 YEARS!!!!!

Wow! On this day, February 25th, 7 years ago (2004), God gave me the most wonderful gift of all: a miracle; a second chance at life. WOW!!I can't believe it's been 7 years...time flies!!

A special thanks to my donors: my Mom and Jeff (family friend). I know some of you are new to my blog, so I've decided to re-post my "About Me"/Intro posts when i started my blog, that recaps my story. I have been blessed beyond bless and are so excited to see what life has in store for me. I know I have my ups and downs (getting sick), but I always seem to bounce back and jump right back into my normal, daily (sometimes stressful, but wonderful) life. I'm getting closer and closer to pursuing my career dreams!


I've had a lot of close friends pass away recently, some that are really sick (post and pre-transplant) and some waiting for their 2nd chance as well. I am praying for these people every day and for God to touch their life in an amazing way. I'm sure most, if not all, of my followers are organ donors (those that can be-medical-wise)...but if you aren't...i strongly encourage you to be one. It's a wonderful gift that you can give to someone else.


We've had exciting news in the CF world as well, with the VX-770 drug getting astounding results. We are looking forward to it being approved by the FDA and get on the market, so it can start saving lives as well. We are definitely making Great Strides in the world of CF!! And i really encourage you to be a part of that.


I'm ecstatic to be celebrating a special anniversary today! God is good; and a special thanks to all my family, friends, and medical team members that have cared for me pre-transplant and now post-transplant..for allowing me to live my dreams and pursue my goals, for taking such great care of me, and for being a wonderful support system!! Thank you!

Friday Fill-Ins

Finally....time to actually blog!!! May not last long, so figured I better take advantage of this time while I have it!! I haven't done Friday Fill-Ins in a long time!

If you are interested in participating in this fun, Friday, meme, click here!

1. I'm going to Nashville to visit a best friend in a couple of weeks. Finally a break that I've been needing and wanting to do. In addition, I've never been to Nashville, even though it's only about a 3 hour drive from where I live.

2. I'm not the type of person who usually enjoys adventure and daring.

3. Perhaps today you can make it a point to play with your pet! If you have a cat....have you tried the laser pointer? My cat loves it!.

4. I don't have much of a true adventurer’s spirit.

5. Compassion is an amazing gift. Always have compassion for others!

6. I keep on going no matter how difficult the task or challenge might be.

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to doing nothing...watching TV...oh wait, I have to listen to at least 1 online school lecture; tomorrow my plans include studying for finals next week and listening to more online school lectures; and Sunday, I want to make it to church and accomplish even more studying....just a few more days!!

6 YEARS!!!!!!!!

Today, February 25th, 2010, I celebrate my 6th Transplant Anniversary. God has given me this miracle gift and I am so thankful for it. I'm thankful for my Mom and family friend sacrificing their lives to give me a chance at living again. It's amazing...especially since I received a living donor transplant. It's been a rough year, but I'm so thankful I am still alive, and able to pursue my dreams and goals in life! Nothing will stop me from doing that!

I will share more later! I had a major physiology lecture exam earlier today and are currently studying for a physiology lab quiz tonight (in about an hour)....so can't "play" on the computer! Will update later tonight!

Thank you to those who have already left comments on facebook. I'm so honored to be a part of this Wonderful CF Community of Bloggers!

Friday Fill-In

1. No, we will NOT upgrade the shipping at our cost (an inside joke at work).

2. Please don't paint at the old kitchen table.

3. I watched the steam rising from the hot cup of coffee (or tea) and thought: that looks nice and warm; too bad I don't like coffee or tea ;)

4. Everything is going to be okay.

5. I'll take the "C" average I got in anatomy...totally worth it and not upset about not making an "A" or "B" at all.

6. The recent news on Tiger Woods is very sad, his actions were very inappropriate and I can't believe some people chose him as one of the most outstanding athletes of the year (at least from my point of view).

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to a Christmas party involving good, yummy chili, ornament Dirty Santa and good fellowship with other godly women; tomorrow my plans include babysitting and more babysitting (and a few errands if time allows) and Sunday, I want to go to church and enjoy the last Sunday School before Christmas and the last one before our long time teachers retire; the day will probably involve a little bit of shopping if I have enough energy!

Thanksgiving Friday Fill-In

Thanksgiving Edition of Friday Fill-In! If you are interested in participating, click here.

1. Wait! Wait, don't forget the cherry on top!
2. Eating dinner is usually followed at once by watching television.
3. The trouble is i have a hard time getting comfortable.
4. I would love to be in a tropical setting man, many, many miles away.
5. With a faint pop here and there, my neck feels better!
6. Winters can sometimes be shadowy and ominous (although not too frequently in Alabama).
7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to resting, maybe watching a movie, tomorrow my plans include attending an anatomy study session, building my lymph node, and maybe doing a little bit of shopping; and Sunday, I want to go to church and study some more!

Friday Fill-In!

Here is this week's Friday Fill-In! If you are interested in participating in this fun, Friday meme, click here.

1. The last band I saw live was several bands, including Steven Curtis Chapman, Newsboys, Jeremy Camp, and Sanctus Real, at Winter Jam 2007. (I don't go to concerts too often).

2. What I look forward to most on Thanksgiving is spending time with family!

3. My Christmas/holiday shopping is partly complete, but still a ways away from being completed.

4. Thoughts of passing my anatomy class fill my head WAY TOO MUCH.

5. I wish I could wear any type of shirts/dresses/outfits without worring if it "pulls" too much on my back.

6. Bagpipes played at my College Graduation this past May. It was very nice and interesting to hear...a fun vibe!

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to getting some studying in, maybe watching a movie as well; tomorrow my plans include resting, studying, and running some errands; and Sunday, I want to try again to make it to church!

Halloween Friday Fill-In

Once again, here is today's Friday Fill-In! Click here if you are interested in participating!

1. It was a dark and stormy night, and i lay under the covers listening to the thunder, waiting to fall asleep.

2. Her schedule was packed, so I offered to take the books myself.

3. Rushing out, I left my cell phone at home...oops!

4. UH OH! ...I think I heard a howl!

5. Shhhh... I'm trying to listen to the gas stove to see if it still on.

6. TRICK OR TREAT; give me something good to eat!

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to attending my cousin's senior AU Singers concert, tomorrow my plans include studying, visiting a friend in hospital, and handing out candy to the trick-or-treaters; and Sunday, I want to try once again to make it to church!

Oct. 9th Friday Fill-in!

Another week of Friday Fill-Ins! If you are interested in participating in this Friday Meme, click here!

1. Sweet dreams PaPaw!

2. Candy corn was made especially for me.

3. Silliness can really make my day sometimes!

4. I will be working/volunteering at a church fall festival this Halloween.

5. Outstanding or not I have to pass this Anatomy class!

6. A break from school is what I want right now!

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to resting and watching TV, tomorrow my plans include studying and running errands and Sunday, I want to be able to attend church, and just enjoy a stress-free day!

I hope everyone has a wonderful weekend!!!

Recap: About Me Part IV-Final Post

Here is the About Me Part IV Recap and final post!

It was Sunday night before the transplant. I was really sick, and didn't know much of what was going on around me. I remember my Dad and brother coming up to see me that night, but that was it. I don't remember anything from that point forward. Evidently, the decision was made to precede with the living donor transplant. Although my parents claim they told me about it, I have no memory of that and seriously had no idea I was about to be transplanted. I think this was another blessing from God, as I didn't have to worry or experience anxiety like most everyone else would before a major surgery like this. God held my hand through this and took all the pain away. The doctors "gave" me just a few days to live, so in order to save my life, this is what had to be done. On Monday, things kept getting worse, and my CF doctor decided that I needed to go ahead and be put on the ventilator. The transplant was scheduled for Wednesday morning at the University of Southern California in Los Angeles. I would fly by MedJet Tuesday morning along with my Mom and my other donor. My Dad would fly out there with our back-up donor, and my donor's brother, would fly out as well.

On Monday, my mom and my other donor had to undergo numerous tests at UAB, so a nurse and close friend stayed with me Monday. My CF doctor came in to discuss putting me on the ventilator and told me that about 50% of CF patients who go on the ventilator are not able to come back off of it. My response to that (as I was told...remember I have no recollection of this)was "That means that 50% DO come off of it, right?). I held my CF Dr's hand as they took me down to ICU and prepared me for the ventilator. My Dr. let me use his cell phone (or someones..not sure who's it was) to call my Mom, who was at UAB at this time. My Dad was preparing for the trip to California (there was a lot that needed to be arranged). I called my Mom and told her "Bye" and that I would see her soon with my new lungs. My Mom said she could hardly hold herself up at that time, being away from me, and knowing that there was a pretty good chance of me not making it through the night.

Tuesday morning came along, and the doctors called my parents early that morning. The plan was for everyone to meet at the airport, but plans changed. They didn't think I was going to be stable enough to transport. My CO2 level had already risen to about 4 times normal and things didn't look good. My Dad told me the weather was horrible that morning too. My Dad called one of our friends, who is also my parents Sunday school teacher. My Dad told him to just pray, pray. This guy, when he got off the phone, called everyone he could and told them to pray. Within 10 minutes of of my Dad making that phone call, by the grace of God, things began to stabilize enough and my Dad said that I had never looked so peaceful as I did that morning. At that moment, he knew everything would be ok.

Upon arrival at USC, I was immediately sent to the ICU. Mom and my other donor had to do some more tests to prepare for the next morning. Shortly after arrival at USC, I began to deteriorate and one of the Transplant Nurse Coordinators tracked down my Mom and told her that the only way I was going to live until morning, was to be placed on ECHMO, which is a heart-lung bypass machine. This machine performed every bodily function for me. At this time, my CO2 level was 5 times normal (211). A person with this high of a CO2 level does not live. A normal CO2 level is between 35 and 40. God helped me hold on until the next morning, February 25th, 2004, and the transplant was a huge success. I was told my lungs crumbled into pieces as they were removed from my body. The surgery definitely had it's worries and concerns. Imagine from my Dad's point of view: his wife, daughter, and best friend all in surgery at the same time, and are running the risk of loosing their lives as well because of the risky surgery. But again, by the Grace of God, everything went smoothly. I made it through the surgery with "flying colors" but I wasn't out of the woods yet. The transplant team expected me to have brain damage, kidney damage, etc., because of the record CO2 level and being placed on ECHMO. Once again, God had a plan for me, and I didn't incur any of those complications.

The recovery process at USC was the most intense and painful experience, both mentally and physically. I stayed on the ventilator for about 4 more days after surgery. As soon as they took the breathing tube out, I realized I could BREATHE...one of the most awesome feelings EVER for a CF patient. Because I was so sick and weak prior to transplant, and with the addition of paralytic drugs, I was completely paralyzed afterwards. I couldn't move any part of my body by myself. This was the most frustrating thing, as I depended on everyone to do everything for me. My arms were so swollen and filled with fluid, they were too heavy for me to lift them up on my own (same goes for the feet/legs). About 2 weeks after transplant, I began to experience stomach issues. I ended up having an intestinal blockage, which required immediate surgery. This was performed about 1 month after the transplant, and in my opinion, was some of the worst pain ever experienced, even more than the transplant.

Because I was paralyzed, I had to re-learn how to walk again (yes..not just strength but even the technique of walking). It was 6 months later (in August) that I was actually able to walk on my own, without the help of a walker or wheelchair. It wasn't until October of that year that I began to drive again. It also took a long time before I could feed or bathe myself. Because of the lengthy and painful recovery process it was hard for me to realize I was improving. But I did, each and every day. We had millions of people praying for us, and an awesome team of surgeons, doctors, physical therapists, etc. at USC. I didn't think it was possible for me to walk again. But then again, God proved me wrong.

I spent 3 months in California, before returning home to Birmingham. I missed every one at home so so much, especially my brother. It was a truly hard experience but I wouldn't trade it for anything. And if you don't call this a miracle from God, then I'm not sure how you explain it. I truly am a miracle from God and are alive today to share this with others and continue to glorify him in everything I do. As of right now, I was the sickest patient USC has ever transplanted, and had a record CO2 level that anyone at USC, Children's and UAB had ever seen.

Currently, I'm doing pretty well. I have had my share of post-transplant complications in addition to several other things. But transplant complications are so much different that what CF patients experience, and in my opinion, are far easier to deal with.

Recap: About Me Part III

Here is the recap About Me Part III post!

Picking up from where I left off: I had just been admitted to the hospital through the emergency room during spring break of my senior year in high school. So right before I left the hospital, my CF doctor came to my room to talk to my Mom and me. I kind of had an idea of what it would be about, but didn't want to think about it. My doctor felt that I needed to be listed for a lung transplant, that there was no "bouncing back" from this and this would be the only option to save my life. I denied it of course, went home, and concentrated on finishing up the school year. By the grace of God, I finished up most of the remaining school year at home, and graduated as Valedictorian with a 4.12 GPA. Graduation night was tough and not very fun. As soon as it was over, I went home, aching for the O2.

As I realized I was not getting better, I began to pray and ask God, was this what needed to be done? I cried and fought with him, hoping there was another way. I kept asking him, why me, why now? I then realized, that no, a transplant was the only thing that was going to save my life, and God would get me through this. I immediately jumped on the decision and got evaluated and listed at University of Alabama at Birmingham. Because I had been listed as a pediatric patient (see previous post), I had already accumulated about 2 years worth of time on the list. The thought was that I would get transplanted sooner than later, and everything would be fine.

However, that was not God's plan. I waited and waited for lungs to come along (and I actually was #1 on the list very quickly after being listed). I prayed every day. I also started doing several independent bible studies. I wanted to be prepared and needed some comfort during this rough time. After I got listed, I really never worried about the transplant. I knew there was a possibility that I would not survive the transplant, or die shortly after. However, I had a peace about it, and was more anxious to get it over with than anything. I knew I was in God's hands, and he was in control.

My health remained stable (as stable as it could be) until about January of 2004. At this time, it definitely took a turn for the worst. I went in the hospital in late January of that year. I spent about 2 weeks in, getting the usual IV abx, PT, high calorie foods, etc. I also spent my b'day in the hospital, but had 3 surprise parties that day by different people. It was truly a fun and blessed day. I hadn't really felt any better as I was nearing the 14-day stay. I fudged a little and told everyone I was ready to go home. At this point, I did not do PFT's (lung function tests), because I was to sick. So there was no "measuring" to see if I was well enough to be discharged. I knew I probably needed to stay, but ached to spend just a few days at home, in my own bed, for possibly the last time.

So my theory came true, and I ended up back in the hospital 2 days later, in a much much worse condition. I was getting 12 liters of oxygen, albuterol aerosols every 2 hours, morphine aerosols, constant antibiotic medications, and medications to relive pain and anxiety. I knew it was serious, and knew if I didn't get a transplant soon, I would be in trouble. I don't think I realized how soon this needed to happen, as the next 1-2 weeks of events flew by. I got worse pretty much every day. There may have been a day or two where I stabilized, but not much. I was only getting a couple of hours of sleep at this time, and at times, was so "out of it" I had no idea what was going on.

Because no cadaver lungs had become available, my parents discussed with my CF doctor and one from the UAB transplant team about considering a living donor transplant. (See this post for explanation of what a living donor transplant is). Everyone decided to go ahead and prepare for a living donor transplant, but with hopes it would not come to that. I knew that they had talked about it, and many people started stepping up to be tested. But deep down, I kept thinking to myself, that it would never get to that point, and I would get cadaver lungs in no time. And I kept thinking that up until the transplant. Once again, God had a different plan than what I wanted to happen.

To Be Continued (and the next post About Me will be the last).....

Friday Fill-In

Here is this week's Friday Fill-In! Click here if you are interested in participating!!!

1. I have a history of not thinking before I speak sometimes.

2. How to make a kid stop screaming at the top of his lungs just for fun is something I wish I knew.

3. I'm eating (or recently ate) candy corn and cheese.

4. There are too many holes on the road on one of the interstates near by.

5. So that's it, that's all I get????

6. Anything is better than nothing!

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to resting, tomorrow my plans include touring San Francisco and visiting my new baby cousin and Sunday, I want to have a smooth plan ride back home!

I hope everyone has a great weekend! I know I am here!

Recap: About Me Part II

Here is the About Me Part II recap post!

So I'm picking up from where I left off. The decision was just made for me to be evaluated for a lung transplant at St. Louis Children's Hospital. I went through the evaluation process and ended up being a good candidate for lung transplantation. So I became listed in the spring of 1998.

My health actually began to stabilize and hospital stays weren't quite as frequent. However, I did have scoliosis at the time, and it got to the point where surgery was needed to correct the curve. I underwent back surgery the summer before 9th grade. The surgery went pretty smooth as well as the recovery process.

Although I went in the hospital several times that summer, 9th grade proved to be a very successful year. We began to get calls from St. Louis stating that they had lungs for me. However, because my lung functions had improved somewhat and I felt pretty good, we passed on the lungs. At this time, if you passed on lungs more than 3times, you had to consider going off the lung transplant list or becoming inactive. During my 9th grade year, the decision was made to be reevaluated and become inactive on the lung transplant list. Being inactive allows you to still accumulate(or it did at that time) time on the transplant list, but not actively be listed.

Beginning in 9th grade, I did exceptionally well (for me, that is). I only required hospitalizations once during the summer through the 11th grade. I was able to go through the school year without missing any school (for CF that is). It was great. I was involved in many honor societies and community service groups, and managed to maintain an above 4.0 grade point average. I really thought things were turning around! I had a great year hanging out with my friends and just enjoying life overall! Now, I was (and still am) the type of person to stretch things to their limit. I would usually wait as long as possible to go in the hospital for tune-ups!

During 12th grade, I decided to go in for a tune-up during our Christmas break of the school year. I felt like i could not wait until the summer, like I had done for the 3 previous years. During Spring Break of my senior year, my health took a turn for the worst, and there was no "bouncing" back this time. I went in the hospital emergency room during Spring break with an O2 level of around 50%, and having a very difficult time breathing. It was during this stay, that I became dependent on oxygen 24/7. Although I only spent about 3 weeks in the hospital, I was required to finish up the school year at home.

To Be Continued....

Recap: About Me

So I thought I would post some of my first original posts about me! There were 4 posts total, so I am going to repost these posts starting today! I have so many new readers, that I thought it would be beneficial!

So..here it goes: About Me Part I.

I was born in February of 1985. I have 1 brother, who is 2 years younger, who DOES NOT have CF. I have 2 wonderful and loving parents and a very supportive family. My Dad is a Vet, and my Mom is an occupational therapist. There is no trace of CF in my family.

I was diagnosed with CF shortly after birth. I had an intestinal blockage at birth, which was the 1st indication I might have CF. I was able to live a fairly normal life until the age of about 7. At that time, I began doing CF therapies and added some additional medications. I also went in the hospital for the 1st time for a CF "tune-up." For those of you who don't know, CF patients go in the hospital for "tune-ups" where they receive IV abx (antibiotics) to help give them a boost and to feel better. I was then able to wait another 3 years, until the age of 10, before I had to go back in the hospital. I've always attended a public school, and was able to have a fairly normal every day routine and life like any other kids at that time.

I danced when I was little and in preschool! I started gymnastics when I was 5 years old and continued until I was 11, in the 5th grade! I LOVED gymnastics, and would have continued it if it wasn't for the g-tube placement.

At the age of 10, my CF started to get progressively worse. Hospital visits were more frequent and I was having trouble keeping up with day-to-day things, especially physical activity and weight gain. In the 5th grade, I went in the hospital about 3 times that year. I also got a feeding tube to help with gaining weight and nutrition. From about the 5th-grade until the 8th grade, hospitalizations were about every 3 or 4 months and things really started to go down hill. Beginning in 5th grade, I started wearing oxygen at night, which greatly limited slumber parties, etc., with friends. Nevertheless, I still attended a public school and was part of many school organizations, Honor Society, advanced classes, etc. I wanted to be as normal as possible. Until about the 8th grade, I never told any of my friends I had CF. They just thought I got sick frequently. My family and I were and still are very strong in our faith of Jesus Christ, which makes these situations so much easier to handle and endure. In the 8th grade, things began to change dramatically.

In January of 1998, I went in the hospital for a what was supposed to be 10-day tune up. During this stay, I "caught" the flu (yes...in the hospital), which made my health take a huge turn the wrong way. I spent 5 1/2 weeks in the hospital that time (which included my b'day and Valentines' Day). The decision was also made for me to get evaluated for a lung transplant. I had just turned 13 at this time. This was a huge shock for me and something I did NOT want to do. But I didn't have a choice and my parents made my decisions for me. In spring of that year, I traveled, along with my parents, to St. Louis Children's Hospital to be evaluated for a double-lung transplant.

To be continued.....

Friday-Fill In

Time for another Friday-Fill In! Click here to participate!

1. One week ago I was completing another Friday-Fill In post.

2. I took gymnastics when I was young.

3. Mama told me that she loved me.

4. Do you remember when you and me went to the state fair last year?

5. Take your time when you eat, don't rush or shove your food down to quick!

6. This phase will pass!

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to relaxing and watching a TV/movie, tomorrow my plans include running errands, lunch with Brandi, preparing for my babysitting San Francisco trip and of course studying; and Sunday, I want to really try to make it to Sunday School and Church!

I hope everyone has a great weekend!!

Friday Fill-Ins

Here I go again with another Friday Fill-In! Click here if you would like to participate!

1. My car gets awesome gas mileage and drives so smoothly...i love my car!

2. My anatomy lecture class 1st major exam is coming up next Monday, as long as I wake up from my bronchoscopy.

3. Lately, things seem crazy, hectic, and hard to understand why they are happening. I know God has a reason though, and hopefully things will turn around soon.

4. The Lake is one of my favorite 'hiding' places.

5. What happened Wednesday morning was amazing and so God-driven, regarding my grandfather. It's amazing how God works little things into situations.

6. Finding a cure for CF is not impossible!

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to relaxing, but it will be coupled with studying; tomorrow my plans include resting and studying and Sunday, I want to really be able to make it to church!

Kreativ

Sweet Katelyn gave me this Kreativ Blog Award! Thank You Katelyn!! I really admire you and you are such an inspiration to me! I feel like we are able to relate to each other quite frequently! Oh..and you take such awesome care of your CF...you amaze me at how healthy you are!!!!



Here are the rules for the award:

Thank the person who nominated you.
Copy and paste the logo on your blog.
Link the nominator on your blog.
Name seven things about yourself.
Nominate seven "kreativ bloggers".
Post links to the nominated blogs.
Leave a comment on each of the blogs

Ok..so here are 7 things about me...
1. I am only a whopping 4 feet, 11 inches tall!!!
2. I have a 22 yr old Brother!
3. I graduated this past May with a BS in Health Information Management. I am now working on my 2nd degree: BS in Nursing...and can't wait to graduate again :)
4. I do not like any kind of tea to drink...gross!!!
5. I do not like fruits or vegetables either...i know, not very good!!!
6. I love love to go to the lake...water ski, tube, and just laying out on the pier!! It's very relaxing! (hopefully I'll be going there today after church)
7. In the 6th grade, I got "silent lunch" because I convinced a friend of mine to pull this chair out from underneath this other friend of mine. This was my 1st and LAST time to ever get in trouble!

I nominate the following 7 "kreative" bloggers:
Amy @ My Journey with CF
Cara @ Cara Monster
Kellee @ Our Story
Casey @ aCASEYofCF
Kori @ My Life as a CFers wife
Summer @ Let Your Life Speak
Lauren/Alexandria @ the Journey of two CFers