Hello Friends,

It’s almost the end of July and wow, such beautiful weather!  I wanted to give you an update of my status:  By the title of the email, yes, I have lost a little more kidney function the past few weeks.

As the Dr shared, I will start to get sicker.  I can attest to this.  I have been dealing with dizziness, disorientation, nausea, and the symptoms I had before like fatigue, high blood pressure, lack of sleep at night, loss of appetite.. they have also increased.  I do still have my “good days”.  So far, today is pretty good…

I have learned more about everything ( diets I will need to adapt to; choosing my dialysis option, medicare…) as I attended a 2 day workshop a few weeks ago. I met a couple more people that have experienced the exact same thing and are also in their early thirties.  This has truly been a blessing!

I have been able to talk with 4 of my 5 brothers– they are more than willing to be donors.  I have been also very, very touched with friends as well as strangers who have offered to consider donating as well.  I think I have 20-25 people that have offered this.  Wow!  what a testimony of paying it forward.

Yesterday, I went to the dialysis clinic- met my nurse and social worker– they are very neat women and funny too! When I was told to start thinking about having a living will, durable power of attorney, DNR… wow, such heavy stuff to think about.  It is really starting to sink in.  The word i can share when people ask how am I feeling?  My simple answer is overwhelmed. So much to take in, process; so much information to read…major life altering decisions to make…

Monday, I will meet with the surgeon to discuss my catheter- this is how I will receive dialysis.  This is an outpatient procedure that will probably take place in the next week, 2 at most.

I have not been put on the transplant list.  I just received my paperwork from KU Med last week and filled it out. Once they receive it back completed, they will set up an appt to start my evaluation.

I will more than likely be creating a face-book page (as I was highly encouraged by a recent transplant patient and a new friend of mine)- this will help give updates as well share with you how you can consider being a donor, or help in any way.

I am in the process of moving back home with my folks.  I am being very, very humbled by this.  I am grateful that my parents are both still together and live in the area.  I know this is what God is directing and He is definitely bringing my family closer together.

I have been so incredibly blessed with the hospitality and generosity of many of you.  You have brought me great food; you have helped with my laundry; housecleaning; packing..Some have even given financially.  I greatly appreciate any help that has been given.  In terms of food… I am on such a restricted diet now, it’s a complicated nightmare to share what I may be able to eat.  Please consult with me first, before getting any groceries to prepare anything.  I have learned that each patient is different and has a diet specifically for them.  I have not met with a dietitian yet.

I know many of you are asking how you can be of help?  Continue to pray- Here are some specifics:  Pray that God will give me, my parents and my brothers wisdom.  Pray for guidance with the Drs, nurses, transplant team, Insurance companies… Pray for peace.  Pray that I will not have fear, anxiety– these are big.  Pray that God will provide the monetary means for all of this.  Pray for strength.

I have thought of some things I do need to make life and me more comfortable: a new mattress, a laptop; and a digital camera.  If you can help with any of these- if you know someone that has connections with these, I greatly appreciate it.  I know, there’s Craig’s list.  I haven’t taken time to research as I have barely enough energy to get through this email to you.

Thank you so much for your big hearts!  The care and love you all have shown- I am forever indebted.  Hugs to you and your families!

Carmen