With Thanksgiving in my Heart

November 21,2011

Hard to believe six weeks have passed since surgery.  I am thrilled to report that everything is going great!  Gary is doing very well.  He is still going in for weekly doctor visits and his creatine is holding right around 2.0 (which is great)!  His new kidney seems to be functioning very well.  Gary is eager to begin working again; he is in the process of searching for a job.  I know God has the perfect job for Gary.  As for me, I am feeling completely back to normal.  I am honestly surprised how good I feel.  With the exception of my scar, I would not even know that I had surgery.   School has been taking up most of my time lately.  As, many of you know I have been waiting for months to hear whether or not I had been accepted into the nursing program at UTArlington.  Well, I finally got a letter in the mail this week; I have been put on a wait list.  It seems they had one of their largest application periods ever; almost 700 applicants and only 130 spots available!  I feel blessed to have even been put on a wait list.  They will let me know as soon as a spot opens up for me.  While this may not be my ideal situation……..If I have learned anything this year, it’s that everything will happen in God’s time! 

As Thanksgiving quickly approaches I have so many things to be thankful for!  The list could go on and on…….here are 5 things I am most thankful for:

I am thankful for my amazing husband who loves God and his family with his whole heart.  It was by no accident that Brad and I met.  I am certain God created Brad for me to love.

I am thankful for my beautiful children who remind me to stop and enjoy each day.  I am so blessed to be their mother.

I am thankful for my wonderful twin sister, who is my very best friend.  God knows I could not go through life without her.

I am thankful for prayer.  I truly believe in the power of prayer and I am thankful we serve a Mighty God who answers prayer.

I am thankful that God’s mercies are new each day!

Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; His love endures forever.  Psalm 118:1

4 weeks Post-Op

November 3, 2011

It has now been 4 weeks since surgery and things are great!!  I started back to work this week; it feels so good to be back!  I still get tired pretty easily, but I am starting to feel like my old self again.  Gary is also doing really well.  His creatine is down to 2.1 (which is great!). Gary said his creatine levels have not been that low since he was about 18years old! He is also very happy to have all of his staples out.  Next week, he will begin going for doctor visits only once per week.  He is still sore, but overall he is feeling great. I know this is just the beginning of a new and exciting journey for Gary.  I will thank God daily for His faithfulness in healing Gary!

While I am so thankful that everything has been successful, I am still so deeply saddened by the thousands of people who are waiting for a transplant.  Every 10 minutes a new name is added to the waiting list for an organ transplant.  During this process, I have crossed paths with many people who are awaiting an organ transplant.  I have heard countless heartbreaking stories along the way.  I met a facebook friend, named Randy who has been on dialysis now for one year.  Through it all Randy remains positive and upbeat.  He is a big promoter of organ donation and is constantly sharing other people’s stories in the hopes of finding them a donor. I also learned of an amazing little boy named Zachary who received his first kidney transplant when he was only 11months old.  Now, at 6 years old his kidney is failing.  Over 600 people have been tested with no match found.  The doctors say Zachary has less than a 3% chance of finding a match.  But I am 100% sure that our God has a perfect match for Zachary and the countless others who are waiting.  While I may never be able to understand why some people have to face so many challenges and trials, I have peace in knowing that “All things work together for the good of those who love God.” Romans 8:28

 When I look back at this whole journey I am so overwhelmed.  I Wish I could explain how AMAZING it feels to have been a part of this.  I am not sure why God chose me, but I am so thankful that He did!  I have learned so many lessons along the way.  I have learned lessons in patience, faith, and friendship.  Most importantly, I have learned how to fully trust in my God!  I love knowing that God is always at work in me.  This has been such a rewarding experience, and my goal from here on out is to strive to have an open heart and follow Him daily.   

Behold, I will bring to it health and healing, and I will reveal to them an abundance of peace and truth. (Jeremiah 33:6)

2 Weeks Post Op

October 24, 2011

It has been a little over 2 weeks since surgery and things are great!  I had my follow up visit with my surgeon today.  He said everything looks good and I am cleared to go back to work.  I will return to work next week.  I can also begin some light exercise…Yeah!  However, I was told to hold off on running and weight lifting until after the Holidays.  I don’t quite feel like my old self yet, but I am feeling a little better every day.  I am still sore and have trouble getting comfortable at night.  I also have uncontrollable itching in my abdomen.  Yes….IN my abdomen, it is feeling that is hard to explain.  It feels like an itch deep inside that I cannot scratch….drives me crazy!!  And, I seem to get tired pretty easily.  I am sure it will take time to feel 100%, but overall I am feeling really good!

We had a busy weekend!  Ian’s 7^th Birthday party was on Saturday.  He loves baseball and of course wanted a party at the batting cages.  He invited his entire baseball team, it was so much fun!  My sweet sister Sarah came in town a few days early to help me get everything ready for the party.  She was a HUGE help, I could not have done it without her!!  The day before the party, Sarah taxied me around to get some last minute things.  We went to several stores and I was getting pretty tired.  Sarah somehow talked me into riding on the electric scooter at Target…Ha-Ha!  Yes, I was a scooter person....still can’t believe I did that!  But, it did make for a nice shopping trip!  I was able to go back to church on Sunday.  I was so excited to worship and praise God for his amazing blessings!

Ian's Birthday Party



I am happy to report that Gary is also doing very well!  His creatine is down to 2.3!  He is still going in 3 days a week for check-ups.  He is looking forward to having his staples taken out very soon.  He is still sore, but feeling great!  I feel overwhelmed when I step back and think about God’s amazing love.  I read a quote today that is my new favorite, “Faith is not believing God can it is knowing that he will.”

1 week Post-Op

October 14, 2011

Well, it has already been one week since surgery.  Gary and I are both doing great!  The first 3 or 4 days after surgery were pretty rough.  I was in quite a bit of pain.  I was also dealing with a lack of appetite and nausea.  It’s amazing the difference a week makes; I am feeling so much better.  I am starting to get my appetite and my strength back.  I am also able to move around a lot better.  I am trying to take it easy and am starting to feel a little better every day. Gary seems to be recovering really well also!  He has appointments 3 days a week to make sure everything is functioning properly.  Gary’s creatine (waste product filtered out through the kidneys) is slowly going down.  Before surgery his level was at 9.9 and today is down to 3.5!  I think the Doctors wish it would come down a little faster. However, if we have learned anything in this process it’s that everything will happen in God’s time.  The important thing is that Gary’s new kidney is functioning!  I am certain that our Mighty God will continue to do His work & take care of the rest!

Just some “strange” things I have noticed since surgery……..I have a weird tingling feeling in the spot where my kidney used to be.  It is similar to the feeling when your hand or foot fall asleep, but on my insides….a little strange feeling.  Not sure if this will go away or not.  Also, my desire for sweets has almost disappeared.  For those of you who know me, you know that I have always had a major sweet tooth.  However, since surgery sweets do not sound good to me at all.   Before we left the hospital, Gary’s blood sugar jumped way up.  Gary and I joked that he got my “sweet kidney”.  Ha-ha!  I am sure my love for sweets will return someday!  Please continue to pray for Gary as he recovers!  Pray that his new kidney will continue functioning and his creatine level will go down! 

With all my heart I will praise the LORD.  Psalm 34:2

Surgery was a Success!!

October 10, 2011

Well, the big day came and went.  The past few days have been such a whirlwind!  My sweet twin sister, Sarah, sent me a recap of surgery day and recovery.  Since, I was obviously out of it I was happy to read what took place.  Here is what Sarah wrote:

Thursday, October 6th

5:15am-Meet with Gary and Christy to pray before checking in.

6:00am-Go back to wait in Pre-OP. Aniesthiologist and nurse try several times to get IV in and don't have any success. They decide to wait to try again after they get you into the operating room.

Brad & I

Sarah & I before surgery

7:30am- Head back to the Operating Room. Family and friends wait in the waiting room and anxiously watch the monitors to change color and tell us if you are still in surgery or not. You were in OR 25 and Gary was in OR 24.

In deep thought before surgery



10:20am- The surgery is finished. The surgeon comes out to the waiting area to tell us you are out of surgery and resting in recovery. He showed us the pictures of your kidney and tells us everything went well. He said they will be starting Gary's surgery soon. We had to wait about another hour before we could go back and see you in recovery.

11:30am- Brad, Sarah and Mom go back to recovery to see you. You were SO tired. They are getting ready to put you on oxygen because you were really struggling to breathe. The nurse tells us that the drugs they gave you during surgery made your body so relaxed and tired that it was difficult for you take big deep breaths and that was causing your oxygen level to be very low. The first thing you said was "how's Gary?" We told you he was still in surgery but good. Then you told me that you were "just too tired to breathe!" umm..that is scary...I told you that was all you had to do right now so you needed to just do it! They tell us it will be another hour or two before you can leave recovery.

1:00pm- Gary is out of surgery. The surgeon comes back out to the waiting are and everyone huddles around him to hear the news. It was so exciting to hear that everything went great and the kidney was already producing urine. Gary was moved to ICU to recover. Brad tried to go back and see you in recovery to tell you but they wouldn't let him back again so the nurse let him call you and tell you.

2:00pm- Brad and I go back to recovery to check on you. You tell me that it is too noisy to get any sleep and that all the machines are too loud. You want me to take your Blue surgery cap off and try to fix your hair....that was impossible!! Mom and Christy go back to see you next. We are told you will have to stay in recovery until your oxygen level comes up and that your kidney is still tired and hasn't produced urine yet. So your dr. tells us they are just going to be very cautious and it will probably be a couple of more hours until you can go to a room.

4:00pm- Mom and Brad go back to see you in recovery again and tell you that they are leaving to pick up the boys from school. I am sitting in the waiting room.

5:00pm- Christy goes back to check on you. I was feeling very anxious because you were still in recovery. While I was alone in the waiting room a woman comes up to me and starts talking. She said she didn't have any family or friends to visit at the hospital she just goes to the waiting rooms throughout the hospital to pray for the families and ask God to give them peace. She then had everyone in the waiting room standing in a circle for a big prayer. At the time I was thinking it was of course very nice or her but she was very eccentric and I was kind of thinking what is going on here? Then when we were done praying I felt a great sense of comfort and was ready to continue waiting.

6:45pm- I go back to check on you in recovery again and you are breathing much better now. The nurse tells me that you will be moved very soon to room 1214. I go get your overnight bag and head straight to your room to wait for you.

7:30pm- After over 8 hours in recovery, you are finally out of recovery and settled into room 1214. They had to put you back on oxygen because you are still having trouble breathing. The nurse tells me to keep an eye on the monitor and if your oxygen number goes below 90 to have you put your oxygen tubes back on. Well, that made for a very unrestful night. I kept waking you up to tell you the number and tell you to put the oxygen back on. A couple of times you would wake me up to ask me if the number was low. The rest of the night was kind of a blur because the nurses would come in almost every 30 mins or every hour to wake you up and check blood and vitals and ask questions. They brought you a liquid diet for dinner which you could not eat. You had a couple of bites of a frozen fruit cup.

Friday, October 7th

4:30am- A nurse comes in and says it is time to start trying to wean you off of the oxygen so to only use it if you are needing it. He also brings the breathing thing (not sure what it is called). He wants you to try blowing on it...that was not happening at all.

7:30am- You become very nauseous and very cranky. Definitely not feeling good and you are in a lot of pain. You kept saying you wanted to get out of the bed and you felt like no one was listening to you. We soon find out why you are feeling so bad and cranky...your blood sugar level was extremely low…only 40! They give you glucose in your IV and make you drink 2 cups of OJ. Then your blood sugar level is back to normal at 117. They give you pain pills and you are much more comfortable. You were so hungry and they brought you another liquid diet for breakfast. You didn't eat any of it.

10:30am- You want so badly to get out of bed and sit up. With lots of help and using all the energy you had you make it to sitting up on the side of the bed to change clothes.

1:00pm- You get to eat a couple bites of a sandwich and chips for lunch. This combined with the water you drank causes major belly bloating. You finally are able to get out of bed and sit in a chair. This makes you very tired and very nauseous. Catheter is out now and you try to go pee. No success. You go back to bed for a nap.

4:00pm- You get more pain pills and have not used the pain pump all day. You seem to be feeling a lot better just extremely tired and sore. You have some visitors during the day and receive lots of nice flowers.

Surgery day is mostly a big blur to me.  However, I do remember bits and pieces…. I remember them not being able to get an IV started and I had to go into the OR without the “goofy juice”, as Gary calls it.  I did not like that at all; I was laying in the OR and the Dr. tells me, “Vanessa, you are going to sleep now.”  She placed a breathing mask on me and tears just rolled down my face.  That’s the last thing I remember until recovery.  I do recall Brad telling me that Gary’s surgery was a success and his new kidney was already producing urine!!  I was so relieved, so thankful, so overjoyed! Brad said I responded with 5 words, “Oh Praise God…..Praise God.”  I was able to see Gary the day following surgery; it was amazing to see how great he was doing!!  Due to my low blood sugar and lack of energy, the Docs decided to keep me an extra day.  I was finally able to go home around 530pm on Sunday.  I am so happy to be home and sleep in my own bed.  Gary should be released from the hospital this evening.

I am so very grateful for the love and support of my family during surgery and the days following.  My mom was a huge help with the boys, they had a blast with Meme. My sister gave up time with her children to stay with me at the hospital and take excellent care of me.  And of course, my wonderful husband Brad, who has supported me through all of this.  My sweet mother and father-in-law are headed up tomorrow to help out for a few days. We are so blessed to have all of you!! I cannot find the exact words to express how ecstatic I am that surgery was a success! I know we had awesome doctors, but I truly give all the glory to God! I will thank you daily LORD for you unfailing Love!

Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; his love endures forever. Psalm 107:1

Surgery is Tomorrow!

October 5, 2011

Tomorrow is the Big Day!!!  I am full of emotions tonight.  I am unbelievably excited!  I don’t know if any one will ever fully understand my excitement.  It’s still hard to believe that God chose me for this amazing journey!  I’m overwhelmed when I think about God’s love for me; I feel so blessed to be a part of this.  I can honestly say that following God’s plan for my life has been the most rewarding thing I have ever done.  My prayer for tomorrow is that God would be glorified!!  If anything can come from this journey I truly hope that God will be the hero!  I pray that He guide the surgeons and allow everything to go smoothly.  I pray that Gary’s body accept my kidney and begin functioning for him. I have faith that God will be with Gary and me every step of the way tomorrow.  We had a slight change; the surgery will now take place at 7am.  I know that God has planned all of this.....right down to the exact day and time of surgery!!

Your love, LORD, reaches to the Heavens, your faithfulness to the skies.  Psalm 36:5

Praise God

October 3, 2011

Surgery is back on!  We are all set for Thursday at 11am!!  After a long day of testing and doctor appointments we finally got the news that we are good to move forward with surgery.   I had more blood work and an ultrasound today.  The doctor is fairly certain that I have Gilbert’s disease.  This is a hereditary disease that has to do with the way my body processes billirubin.  It is not at all harmful.  I am so thankful to Gary and Christy who both were so sweet to keep me company for my long day of testing!  Thank you to everyone for your prayers!  I knew God’s plan would continue for us, it just had to be in His time!

For his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.  Lamentations 3:22

The Peace of God Transcends All Understanding

September 29, 2011

Just wanted to give a quick update, I have an appointment scheduled Monday with a Hepatologist (liver doc).  I am still waiting to have an ultrasound and lab work scheduled.  We are praying that all tests can be done and come back fine next week.  If so, we could be rescheduled for surgery as early as Thursday.  But, as we are learning this will all happen on God’s time.  I am a bit of a controller and I like for things to be very planned out.  I have to admit, this is a challenge for me to give up control and allow God to fully work in my life!  Today was a bit of a struggle for me.  Every time I looked at the clock, I would think what would have been happening at that moment had surgery taken place as planned.  I know Gary is meant to have my kidney…...just not today.  We have to allow God’s plan to fall into place in His own time!

Gary shared some amazing scriptures with me that have brought him comfort today.  Jeremiah 29:11-13, Romans 8:26-28, Psalm 42, Psalm 46, and the last verse:

Rejoice in the Lord always, I will say it again rejoice!  Let your gentleness be evident to all.  The Lord is near.  Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your request to God.  And the peace of God which transcends all understanding will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.   Philippians 4:4-7

While we may never fully understand the mysterious will of God, we must fully trust the will of our God!

I would also like to report that my sweet friend Dana’s surgery today was a success!  PRAISE GOD!! Jennifer’s new kidney is producing urine & functioning!  Jennifer and Dana are both doing well.  I am so thankful that God has blessed them with this miracle today!  Please continue prayers for them as they recover.

Setback

September 28, 2011

Today was a very disappointing day…..surgery has been put on hold.  I don’t know if I can put into words how I am feeling right now.  I had an appointment with my surgeon, Dr. Campsen, to ask any last minute questions.  Everything seemed fine while I was in his office.  However, on my way home I got a phone call from Dr Campsen.  He asked if I could come back to his office to discuss my lab results.  It turns out that I had an elevated bilirubin count.  Bilirubin is produced when the liver beaks down old red blood cells.  A high bilirubin count can mean several things.  Dr. Campsen said for me it could mean one of 3 things, it could be stress induced (obviously I am stressed), It could mean something is wrong with my gall bladder, or it could be something called Gilbert’s disease.  If stress is causing my billirubin count to be elevated, they are concerned how my body would handle the stress of surgery.  Dr. Campsen said if the liver becomes so stressed during surgery it could cause my liver to fail.  If it is my gallbladder they will have to remove it before we can proceed with surgery. The last possibility, Gilbert’s disease is the one that I am actually hoping for.  Gilbert’s disease is disorder that affects about 5% of the population; it causes elevated bilirubin counts without being a danger. If it is Gilbert’s disease, we could proceed with surgery in the very near future.  So, I need to have MORE testing done.  I am waiting to hear back from Dr. Campsen’s office on when exactly my test will be scheduled.  They are hoping to have me come in sometime in the next few days for an ultrasound of my gall bladder and bile ducts; and of course more blood work.  I will meet with a hematologist on Monday; he will review my results and determine if we can move forward with surgery.  If cleared, we could have surgery next Thursday.  While I am thankful that the Doctors want to make certain that everything is safe and not put Gary or I in any danger, I am devastated. 

Gary and I both had appointments with the surgeon today.  When I saw Gary this morning he had just come from dialysis.  I said to him, “I bet you are excited that you just had your last dialysis!”  Needless to say, it was heartbreaking when I had to call Gary and tell him the bad news.  I feel horrible for Gary and his family; I can only imagine what they must be feeling. Gary and Christy are two of the most positive people I know.  They both assured me that God is in control and everything will go according to His plan.  The doctor did tell me that he still feels I am a great candidate for surgery and he feels that everything will be fine.  I told him, “I know everything will be fine because God has called me to do this and I know that Gary is meant to have my kidney.”  I know God’s plan will continue for Gary & me and I am certain there is a reason for this.  This was an emotionally draining day for both my family and the McNeil’s.  I am asking that everyone please pray hard for Gary and me!! I know that God is in control, but I feel He is testing my faith.  I am trying to stay strong and give it all to God!!

“Come to me all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest.”  Mathew 11:28

Today was not all bad; I did get the pleasure of meeting Dana. Dana is the sweet woman I met through my blog who is also a donor.  I know God makes no mistakes and I am certain he crossed mine and Dana’s paths for a reason.  Dana is a very special woman who has a heart for God.  Dana will have surgery tomorrow.  Please keep her and Jennifer in your prayers!!

Me and My new dear friend Dana

Beautiful Sunday

What an awesome day!!  We joined the McNiel Family for a wonderful service at their church this morning.  The amazing people at The Fellowship of First Baptist in Royse City surrounded us in a very special time of prayer!  Gary and Christy are blessed to have the support of such a loving church family!  Next, we had a yummy lunch at the McNiel house.  It was wonderful for our families to spend time together before this very exciting week.  We are only days away from surgery and I have complete peace that everything will go according to Gods mighty plan!!  Here are a few pictures of our two families.  This week the McNiel family and Kelly family will forever become one!

Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see.  Hebrews 11:1

7 Days

September 22, 2011

Only 7 more days!!!  By this time next week Gary will have a new kidney!  I am so excited!  I spent the past week feeling extremely nervous and this week I am just so excited!  I have my hospital bag packed & I am ready to go.  I feel so blessed that I have such amazing support from family & friends!  My sister & my parents are coming in town for the surgery.  My mom will stay to help out for a week and then my mother-in-law will be coming for a few days.  I also have several friends who have offered to bring some meals for my family.  I am SO thankful that I have these people in my life!  It gives me so much peace to know that my boys & I will be well cared for during my recovery.  Please be in prayer for both my boys and the McNiel children during this time; ask God to calm any fears they may be having.   Thanks so much for all of your prayers as Gary & I prepare for surgery. 

We live by faith, not by sight.  2 Corinthians 5:7

Fully Trusting God

September 15, 2011

Surgery is only 2 weeks away!  I am feeling excited, nervous, & anxious!  I have been struggling with some fears lately…..it’s normal in this situation, I guess.  I have been worrying a lot about my boys, what if something was to happen to me during surgery.  I have two beautiful boys who mean the world to me, Gavin is 8 and Ian is 6.  Off and on during this process I have let my heart be filled with fear and concern for my children.  During one of my long testing days at the Transplant Center I met a woman who was hoping to donate a kidney to her dad.  She also had a son and expressed her fears to me.  She asked me if I had thought about writing a letter to say “goodbye” to my children……just in case.  I had not even thought about that until she mentioned it.  Later that afternoon, I met with the social worker who asked me if I had a will.  She gave me forms for a living will and advanced medical directives forms, “in the event that something was to happen to me”.  I struggled with these fears and concerns for some time.  I had even begun to think of what I would say in a letter to my boys.  Finally, God reminded me that HE was in control!  I realized that if I was fully putting my trust in God, there would be no need to prepare for a mistake!  It’s like I was saying, I know God brought me into this & I know he will see me through…..but just in case God is having an off day, I will take control.  I don’t think it works that way…..we either FULLY trust in God or we don’t trust in God!!  While I do feel it is normal to have fears, I am certain that God choose me for this journey and I am certain he will see me through!

I have explained to my sweet boys that when a friend is in need, we should help in any way we can.  I have told them if someone is hungry we feed them, if someone is hurting we help them.  I tried to put it in terms that little boys could understand, I told them “what if one of your friends was having a really bad day? Let’s say at lunch your friend spilled their tray and all of the food fell on the floor.  Then on the playground that same friend fell off the monkey bars and was hurt, what would you do?  Would you just walk away and hope someone else would help them…..or would you help them up?”  It’s the same thing I am doing for Gary; I saw a friend in need and tried to walk away.  I hoped someone else would help him, until I realized God wanted me to help Gary!  A couple of weeks ago, I was having lunch at Jason’s Deli with my boys when the topic of me donating a kidney came up.  Gavin wanted to know how I could live with only one kidney.  I explained to him that we have several “extra” parts in our bodies that we can live without; for example, tonsils & appendix.  My very smart 8 year old looked up at me, shrugged his shoulders and said, “I get it, God gives us more than we need.”  He looked at his brother and said, “Here Ian want a chip?  God gave me too many.”  Oh I love that boy……I think he understood what I was saying!  Gavin & Ian have shown some concern for mommy.  I have tried to remind them that whenever we are scared or worried we can talk to God about it, and it always helps!  I feel that learning to FULLY trust God is one of the MANY lessons he is teaching me in this journey!

Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.  Isaiah 41:10

God's Timing

September 7, 2011

Surgery is only 22 days away and I am feeling a little overwhelmed!!  I am trying to keep up with everything else going on in my life right now.  The boys are in 1^st and 3^rd grade this year & keeping us very busy with baseball and Cub Scouts.  I work part-time in Simply Mom’s, an outpatient lactation center at Baylor and I also teach Childbirth and Infant CPR classes.  My fall semester began last week; I am taking 3 classes this semester.  I have submitted my application to the nursing program at UT Arlington and should receive a decision by November.  Some of you may be wondering, “Why are you donating a kidney right now?”  Or, “does she really need to add anything else to her busy life?”  Believe me, at times I feel like there is NO WAY I can handle all of this!  But, God quickly reminds me that he is in control!  I step back and think, as crazy as my life may be right now, I’m sure it’s nothing compared to the burden Gary has carried for the last couple of years with his kidney disease!  I believe that we all get caught up in our own little worlds.  For me, I know that I am meant to reach out and help Gary right now.  I know that God’s timing is perfect!!  I have faith that God will carry me through even when I feel like I can’t handle it!

I appreciate all of the prayers as we continue to prepare for surgery!

Cast your cares on the Lord and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous fall.  Psalm 55:22

 

 

Surgery Countdown

August 31, 2011

We are all set!  Surgery will take place on September 29^th at 7am!  We will be on the countdown until surgery day….in only 29 days Gary will have a new kidney!!  Gary & I are both very nervous but so excited!  I wanted to share something amazing that only God could do.  I received this comment on my blog the other day:

 Vanessa,
I have been reading your blog since you started writing it. There are few blogs out there that explain the process from beginning to end. I really appreciate you writing each day. The reason I am commenting is because I am also donating a kidney! I started back in June and it has been a long process just to get approved. I have had to redo several tests and additional tests. I found out Friday afternoon that the committee had approved me for surgery and that my surgery date is scheduled for September 29! I could not believe my eyes when I saw your blog this afternoon. I truly believe that God has placed your blog in my path because when I felt so alone or hopeless, I was able to read your blogs and your scriptures and that got me through the waiting! Thank you so much for your inspiration through your words. By the way.... we will be at the same hospital in Dallas at Baylor! Val is also my coordinator! It is truly what I considered a Godly plan! Maybe we can meet! I would love that!
Thanks again,
Dana

Needless to say I was blown away by this!  I feel that God makes no mistakes, it is not by mistake that He crossed mine & Dana’s paths! As Dana said, it’s “a Godly Plan”, and I feel so blessed to be a part of the amazing plan!  Dana & I have been emailing each other & I cannot wait to meet her!  I am so thankful that God has brought me a friend to share this experience with.  Dana is also donating to a friend who has been on dialysis for about 3 years.  Please add Dana & her recipient, Jennifer, to your prayer list! 

My new favorite quote: “Let go and let God”

Good News

August 29, 2011

We can move forward with surgery!!  Surgery will most likely take place on September 29^th, just waiting to hear a confirmation of time.  We should know a definite surgery date and time by Wednesday. My transplant coordinator said the results of my arteriogram looked great.  It is always preferred to take the left kidney, so they will give my left kidney to Gary.  While my left kidney does have 2 arteries, they said this is pretty common & would not be a problem.  It was an unbelievable & overwhelming feeling to be able to share this news with Gary today!  He said he is going to “start the countdown of dialysis days remaining.”  It is my prayer that everything works properly after surgery & Gary never has to go through dialysis again!   

I want to take a moment to say, “Thank You!!”  I am truly touched by everyone’s love & support during this process.  I created this blog to keep my friends & family updated on the process.  However, it has been used in ways I would never have imagined.  In less than a month, this blog has been viewed over 1500 times, in 4 different countries….WOW!  I have received countless emails, text messages & phone calls from people I have not seen in years and even people I have never met.  People are letting me know how touched they are by mine & Gary’s story.  God’s hand is in everything & He works in amazing ways!!  I greatly appreciate all the kind words & prayers!  As Christi said to me the other day, “We have lots of people praying!”  I can sure feel those prayers! 

As you all know I honestly felt called by God to be a donor for Gary.  I am the first to admit that I have ignored hundreds of other “callings” from God.  I would typically make excuses; “not now God”, “I don’t think I can”, “I’m too busy God”.  I really do believe that God calls on each of us daily.  He calls us to be a better spouse, a better parent, or a better friend…......what is God calling you to do?  I am not sure what made me willing to answer this particular call from God, but I feel that through time spent in prayer my heart was open to God’s plan! By following God’s plan, I have already been blessed in more ways than I could ever have imagined!  Please continue to pray for the McNiel family and mine as we prepare for surgery! 

 “It is God who is at work in you, both to will and to work for His good pleasure.” Philippians 2:13

In God's Hands

August 26, 2011

Well, I survived my arteriogram!  It really was not all that bad.  I arrived at Baylor around 6am and was checked in to day-surgery.    Brad had to stay home to get the boys to school, so I went to the hospital alone…….this made me very nervous!  First, I had blood drawn; my nerves were really getting to me.  I sat down in the lab & immediately felt God’s arms around me.  I looked up on the wall of the lab and noticed a dry erase board that the nurse had written on in bright orange, “Commit everything you do to the LORD.  Trust him and he will help you. Psalm 37:5” I wonder if the nurse knew what comfort that verse would bring me & hopefully others that day.  Next, I went across the hall to have my weight & vital signs taken, I looked on the nurses desk and noticed she had a framed sign that read, “Give it to God in prayer, he makes everything better.”  It was like God was reminding me that I was not alone, he was right by my side!   I was then taken to my room.  I was given an IV and tried to get comfy, in my not so comfy hospital bed.  Around 8am, my nurse got a call from Radiology saying they would not get to me until around 1130.  So, I had a couple of hours to watch TV and take a little nap in my room while I waited.  Finally around 1130, they took me to the Invasive Radiology Dept.  The radiology operating room looked like a normal OR only with a lot of screens for viewing pictures.  One of the radiologists looked at me and said, “You look very healthy, why are you having this procedure done.”  I told him about Gary and I immediately became very emotional.  I was thinking how much my heart goes out to Gary for having to suffer with kidney disease.  I became very concerned that this test would show something that would prevent surgery from happening….I so badly want to be able to help Gary.  Tears rolled down my face and the room full of very sweet men (yes, all of my care takers in the radiology dept were men) took turns bringing me tissues and wiping away my tears.  One of them even gave me a high-five and told me he would be praying for Gary & me.   It was time to begin the procedure, they gave me a “conscious sedative”, I was awake and able to talk during the entire procedure, and I just felt very relaxed.  I never felt anything, and it seemed to be over quickly.  Before I knew it I was back in my room, where I again was full of emotions.  I could not stop crying, thinking about the how amazing God is to bring me through this whole donor process.  He has taught me so much during this incredible journey.  Most of all he has taught me that He is always in control!  My wonderful husband, Brad, arrived shortly after the procedure was done and kept me company while I was on a 4hr bed rest in the hospital.  I was discharged around 4pm and was told to go home and continue bed rest for the remainder of the day.  Brad was great in taking care of the boys, dinner, and waiting on my every call…….Thank You Brad!!  I was able to go to work today, but did not make it all day.  I was very sore and felt light headed, so I came home early and took a long nap.  I am going to take it easy this weekend and wait to hear from the transplant center.  I spoke with my transplant coordinator, Val, today and she said the results of my procedure along with our requested surgery dates were sent over to the Doctor today.  We should have a decision and hopefully a surgery date by Monday.  Please pray that God’s plan will continue to fall into place.  As Christy reminded me today, “It’s all in God’s Hands!”

Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous!  Do not tremble or be dismayed for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.  Joshua 1:9

Bump in the Road

August 22, 2011

Well, we have hit a small “bump in the road”.  When I got a call today from Val, my transplant coordinator, I was expecting her to have a surgery date for me.  Instead she said, “We need to do an arteriogram.”  An arteriogram is a special type of x-ray that will help give a better view of my arteries surrounding my kidneys.  Apparently, I have two arteries coming from my kidneys not just one.  I am told this is not uncommon; however, can sometimes make things more difficult in surgery.  The surgeon needs some measurements of these arteries and needs to see how they flow.  Depending on the size of my arteries, how they flow, or where they are placed, this test will determine if surgery can still take place.  So, I am scheduled for an arteriogram on Thursday at 6am at Baylor.  Here is what I am being told about this procedure, first they will give me a sedative to put me to sleep.  Then, they will insert a long catheter, epidural-like, needle into the large artery in my groin area. Next, radioactive dye is inserted through the catheter & x-rays are taken of the arteries.  I am told the worst part of the procedure is the hours following.  Since this is a major artery, they will need to apply a lot of pressure to ensure that it does not bleed out.  I will have a pressure bandage put on & then a sand bag placed on my leg.  I will be unable to bend my leg and have to lie flat for 4-6hrs following this procedure….sounds fun, right?  I have to admit, I am sort of freaking out over this!  I was fine with a surgery that I knew would take place a month from now……I was preparing for that.  But I was not prepared to be put under this week!  While I am extremely nervous, I have faith that everything will work out!  I am thankful that the surgeon is being thorough and wants to make certain of what he is dealing with, prior to surgery.  I have been told from other living donors that this procedure is somewhat common.  My heart sank today, when I had to call Christy to let her know that there would be a hold in scheduling the surgery.  I can only imagine the emotions Christy & Gary must be feeling during this entire process.  

I am just reminding myself that God is in control, and everything will work according to his plan!  Please continue praying for all of us!  Please pray that my nerves & fears will be calmed for this upcoming procedure.   

Wait for the Lord; be strong, and let your heart take courage; wait for the Lord! Psalm 27:14

Cleared for Surgery

August 19th

Cleared for Surgery

Great News……We are cleared for surgery!!!!!!   My TB test came back negative & we are now ready to schedule a surgery date!  I gave my transplant coordinator 2 dates that would work well for me, September 29^th or October 6^th.  (From what I understand, transplant surgery at Baylor is only done on Thursdays)  So, my transplant coordinator has put in a request to the Doc to schedule surgery on September 29^th.  She said it may take a few days to hear back, she will let me know for sure, probably next week. 

I have a flood of emotions today!  I have been praying & preparing for this & was fairly certain It would all work out.  However actually hearing the words, “You are cleared for surgery!  When would you like to schedule?”  Makes it all seem so real….. .I just keep thinking this is really happening!?  I am excited, relieved, scared, & nervous all at the same time!  Most importantly I am so happy that Gary will finally have a new kidney!  Thank you all for your prayers!!

Praise the LORD! Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good! His faithful love endures forever.  Psalm 106:1

News from the Transplant Committee

August 15, 2011

After a long weekend spent waiting for a phone call, I FINALLY got a call from Val at the Transplant Center around noon today.  She said I need to have my TB test re-done, if it comes back good then I am cleared for surgery!!!!!  My current TB test was done at work about a year ago and will expire at the end of this month.  I am scheduled to have a new TB test done at work tomorrow; it will take 3-4 days for the results.  I am really not concerned about this test…..I am certain that I do not have TB.  So, I can almost say with certainty that I will be able to donate my kidney to Gary!!  Praise God!!!!  Val also informed me that Gary & I are a 3 out of 6 compatible match!  This is actually really good; typically non-related donors are a 1, maybe 2 out of 6.  She seemed surprised to see that Gary & I are a 3 out of 6, she said this is an excellent match!!  God makes no mistakes!! 

I will keep everyone updated on the results of my TB test.  In the meantime, please be in prayer for Gary.  Please pray that his body accepts my kidney and it’s a complete success!

Show me your ways, O Lord, teach me your paths; guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are God my Savior, and my hope is in you all day long.  Psalms 25:4

Waiting for the News

August 12, 2011

I woke up this morning with such a mix of emotions!  Today my test results will be presented to the Transplant Committee & they will decide if I can donate to Gary.  I probably won’t hear from them until Monday; but, still I am SO nervous today!  I am anxious, excited, and a little scared.  I woke up and immediately began praying.  I asked God to give me patience and peace while I wait for the decision.  I also asked that God’s will be done in my life & in Gary’s.  It’s amazing how time spent in prayer can bring such calmness over me.  I could hear God reminding me that this was in his hands.  I have faith that God’s plan for me is perfect!  I can only imagine what Gary and his family must be feeling right now.  I had someone ask me the other day about Gary’s health condition.  I realized, I only know that Gary has polycystic kidney disease & is on dialysis 3 days a week.  Most importantly, I know that Gary needs a kidney and God has given me two healthy ones!  I pray that I can donate and God will heal Gary’s body! 

Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him and he will make your paths straight.  Proverbs 3:5-6

Update

August 10, 2011

Just wanted to give a quick update…… I spoke with Val, my transplant coordinator today.  She said all of my test results have come back & everything looks great!!  She did ask me something kind of strange……she wanted to know if I had been exposed to TB (tuberculosis)?  She said one of my TB test came back positive.  I had a required TB test done at work about a year ago & it was negative, I had my results faxed to the transplant center.  The TB test done at work was a traditional TB skin test.  The TB test done at the transplant center is a blood test.  Val said my chest x-ray looks good and they were not really all that concerned.  She told me the result of this test would most likely not be an issue or keep me from being a donor.  She also said it was possible it could be a “false positive”.  On a good note, she said the results of my GloFill procedure were 97.1%!  I am told this is very good!!  From what I understand, a healthy range is anything above 80%. 

Val told me that my test results are all set to be presented to the Transplant Committee on Friday.  She said I would most likely not hear anything until Monday, since the committee usually does not end their meeting until 5pm…..so I guess the wait continues!  Keep the prayers coming!

Kidney School

August 8, 2011

I thought I would share a little of the knowledge I have learned in this process.  I have done a TON of research & spoken with several doctors.  I’m sure some of you may have questions about donating a kidney and life with one kidney. 

The kidneys functions to remove waste and excess fluid from the body.  The kidney is the organ most commonly given by a living donor.  There are several advantages of a living donation compared to transplants from deceased donors.  A kidney from a living donor is more likely to begin functioning immediately; a kidney from a deceased donor will usually require dialysis for some time after surgery.  Also, a living donor will undergo extensive testing that a deceased donor will not.  So, you may be wondering what is life like with one kidney?  I am told it is almost exactly the same as living with 2 kidneys.  The most important thing is to maintain good kidney health and to protect the single remaining kidney.  The doctor has stressed the importance of staying well hydrated and healthy after kidney donation.  High blood pressure and diabetes are a few health issues that can lead to kidney disease.  I will need to maintain a healthy diet low in protein and salt.  As many of you know, I enjoy running I wanted to make sure that I would still be able to run long distances again someday.  The doctor said I could return to running in about 12 weeks, just have to stay hydrated!  There is a list of medications to avoid with one kidney.  Basically, all NSAIDS (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) such as Aleve, Advil, a few antibiotics, and intravenous dyes (like the kind used for a CAT SCAN).  These drugs are all very hard for the kidney to process and can be damaging.  Sounds like Tylenol may be one of the few safe drugs.  Even though most of us are born with 2 kidneys, it is not uncommon for some to be born with only one kidney and live a completely healthy life.  Once the kidney is removed, the single kidney will grow to do the necessary work.  In as little as 3 months after surgery my remaining kidney will increase in size by as much as 33%!  What amazing bodies God has given us!! 

If you would like more info on kidney donation check out these helpful websites:     www.kidney.org, www.livingdonor101.com, www.lkdn.org

I am hoping this week goes by quickly!  I should have a decision from the Transplant Committee by the end of the week!  Please continue to pray for Gary and his family!!

For I know the plans I have for you declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.  Jeremiah 29:11

Testing Day 2

August 3, 2011

Today is testing day 2!  My first appointment is not until 11am.  Gary’s sweet wife Christy is watching my boys for the day.  My first appointment is at the Transplant Center on Live Oak.  I am having a GloFill procedure done.  My understanding is this procedure is done to test the function of my kidneys.  I was told to arrive at the test well hydrated, I was instructed to drink at least 5 8 ounce glasses of water daily and no caffeine or alcohol, 3 days prior to the test.  I wanted to make sure I was hydrated, so I cut out caffeine and began drinking only water a week before the test.  I arrived for the procedure and of course, I had to give ANOTHER urine sample.  Next, I had to drink a nasty iodine and warm diet coke cocktail…yuck!!  I was then given a GloFill injection in my arm; it is a synthetic form of Creatin (sp?).   (Creatin is broken down or processed by the kidneys.)  Every 30 mins I had to pee in a urine hat and it was measured, I was then told how much more water to drink and then blood samples are taken.  This went on for 3 hours!  Thankfully, I was well hydrated and only had to drink 1 cup of water every 30minutes.  I find it very interesting that there was a sweet man administering my GloFill procedure whose name is Gary!  This procedure was finished at 2pm and next I had a psychological evaluation with another social worker.  She was a very soft spoken and friendly.  She asked all kinds of questions about my life and my relationship with Gary and his family and why I wanted to donate.  I love to tell people how God called me to do this, but you never know how it will sound to a non believer.  I told her, “I know it sounds crazy to some people, but I honestly feel like I was called to do this”  With tears in her eyes she responded, “It does not sound crazy at all, I know exactly what you mean, I hear that all the time from people who are donating.” 

At 4 Pm, I went for a CAT scan of my kidneys and the arteries surrounding them.  At this point, I am STARVING!  I was not allowed to eat 1 hour before the GloFill and 4 hrs before the CT.  So, I have not eaten since breakfast!  I arrive and meet the man who will do my CT, whose name happens to be…..you guessed it, Gary!! God makes no mistakes!!  I have never had a CT before, so I did not know what to expect.  I lay on the CT table and the guy tells me he is going to inject a radioactive dye into my veins.  He said they have to inject it at such a high speed to capture it as it is going through the arteries for a good clear picture.  He warns me that the injection of the dye will give me a warm sensation and make me feel as if I have wet my pants….oh this should be fun!  He steps out of the room and speaks to me on an intercom.  He tells me to hold my breath and injects the dye though my IV.  I immediately feel a rush of heat, like the most intense hot flash ever!  My face became hot and I felt a little dizzy.  Then I felt it….the feeling he told me about, I thought for sure I had wet myself!!  I actually thought it felt like when I was pregnant with Ian and my water broke. I was scared to get up, because I just knew my pants were wet.  But strangely I had not we my pants, just a very similar feeling!!  Glad that is over!  At 5pm I was done with all of my pre-donor testing!!! 

We should have the results in a couple of weeks.  The Transplant Center will present my test results to the Transplant Committee, Baylor on Friday August 14^th.  They will determine if I am able to donate.  If so, surgery will most likely be scheduled in the next couple of months!!!  Prayers please!