The Second Most Important Call To Date.

When I was growing up, I wondered if I would ever have children. Doctors ran constant tests on me that contained words like "nuclear medicine" and "radioactive dye". I had a few miscarriages and thought that was it. Then I had Katie, and 14 months later, Jonathan.

When I got married, the first year was hard. To the point where we separated for abit. There was growing up on both sides that needed to be done. And I learned the harder lesson that sharing your marital issues can color people's perceptions of your mate once things are ok again, even when they are awesome. Some things are never forgotten. But, I have now have a marriage that goes beyond anything I could have imagined is possible in life, and a mate that meets almost every need I have before I ask. We anticipate each other now.

When I was working out of home I wanted success, promotion, security for my family. John had his career, had reached the pinnacle of his craft and was ready to retire as a FT stay at home dad. I gave up precious years with the kids in chasing my "dream". 5 years ago I joined a company in my arena PT just to "see how the business model" was working. I sensed that home-shoring (home-based customer service agents) was the next wave of call center work. 3 years later, I was asked to join FT as a manager. I realized my dream to work at home, and home school my kids. This same company has met our family's every need since the day I was diagnosed. Every. need.

When I went in for an annual physical in February of 2006, blood was run. And my kidney failure was found. I would not have seen the Dr. for my bi-annual checkup for at least another 9-12 months. It would have been too late. I was referred to the exact team of specialists, which the exact temperament and treatment personality that I needed.

When I started researching Transplant Units, I scoured the Internet and read every graph, chart and statistic on every hospital I deemed worthy of treating me. Because, it's all about ME in this case. Every 1% failure rate is one more person that dies. So, it MATTERS. Somehow, I missed the best hospital. But, my doctors did not. They know who I needed to see.

And today, 12 months after diagnosis, tests, calls, visits, stress, letters, more tests, and presentation- we got the call.

THE call.

The SECOND best call we can get.

I am now on the national list for a donor.

Today. March 19, 2007. One year and 10 days after I had surgery for implantation of peritoneal dialysis catheter.

If you are interested in becoming a living donor, please go here and read important information. Several organs can be donated prior to death, including kidneys.

Also, please go here and think about becoming an organ donor upon your passing.

On behalf of the thousands waiting for a chance at a longer life,

THANK YOU.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Life is like a box of chocolates.

You scratch the bottom, expecting one flavor and bite to find the truth. It may not always be the flavor you expect, but in the end, it's the one you need.