I went to the doctor, and my liver enzymes were extremely high. The doctors were trying to diagnose my problem but had no success. Meanwhile, my health was deteriorating quickly. I was referred to a gastrointestinal doctor, and he ordered a liver biopsy. My liver was failing rapidly. He sent me to UNC hospital in Chapel Hill, NC. He suspected I’d need a liver transplant. From mid -April to mid-May, I got so ill that I DID need a liver transplant. The doctors were baffled. My family and friends were in shock. I was unsure what was happening. The toxins in my body that my liver wasn’t filtering clouded my mind. The seriousness of my condition occurred so quickly that my surgery was performed as an emergency. The doctors placed me on the transplant waiting list on May 12, 2000, and by God’s grace, I received a liver transplant on May 14, Mother’s Day.
My liver came from San Antonio, TX, from an unselfish lady who passed away that weekend. Although I wrote a letter to my donor’s family, I never received correspondence. I’m so grateful to her and her family for their unselfish care for strangers. I would thank her from the bottom of my heart for allowing me to have more time with those I love. I’m grateful every day. I’m also thankful for my outstanding medical staff and family and friends who nursed me back to health.
It’s been twenty-two years since my transplant, so I’ve been able to raise both of my kids- see them graduate from high school and college- get their first jobs- see my son marry his lovely bride- and live life! I got to go to the Grand Canyon, New York City, Chicago, and San Antonio, TX! I hope to continue to travel some and enjoy my family and friends.
