Nancy's Lung Transplant Journey

No one warns you as you head toward transplant about the fear and anxiety that come along with new organs. You are sick and dying and only want one thing, a second chance. When you are blessed with that second chance, of course rough times follow as you recover and heal from surgery. But these physically difficult times pass and suddenly you are a new person with abilities you may not even remember having had before.

I spent the last two years of my life sick. That became the norm and soon health was only a distant memory, one I wished for, but couldn't imagine ever achieving again. My world became dependent on everyone else, I could do very little by or for myself. Over time, this became normal, it is what I was used to, and I learned to accept it.

Last April my mom arrived and I clung to her as I did as a child. She took over all of my responsibilities and I was comfortable letting her.

Now, here I am, back on my own again, and it is terrifying! All I remember is how to be sick, it will be a process of re-learning health again. I am thankful and grateful for all that I have been given and feel horrible that I have spent the last few days crying and low. People tell me, "Now you can get back to normal!" but what is normal, that I just don't know.

I promise you, I have not lost my fighting spirit and will not let this anxiety take over. I have had several accomplishments on my own this week including taking myself to the hospital for bloodwork, driving a movie back to the store, picking up some of the household chores, like laundry and dishes, and unpacking from Pittsburgh.

I know in my heart God is with me and there is nothing to fear. Thank you for the support many of you have shown me the last few days, I have really needed it! Nancy