I’ve been trying to avoid using this song as a title, however, there is no other song more fitting for this post in particular. I just received a disappointing call from Baylor today saying that the transplant committee has reviewed my records and have decided to reject me due to my heart making me a high risk. That’s strike two! I told the coordinator that I was not going to accept this response without a fight. (Turns out my cardiologist is not in the committee anymore, so he wasn’t there to give his feedback.) I have asked them to present an appeal to the committee, and to have them reevaluate my case and discuss it further with my doctor so they have a full, accurate picture of what they are dealing with. My heart does not look good on paper, however, I’ve been told it’s a lot stronger than it appears! I also left a message with my doctor begging for him to plead my case and speak on my behalf to the committee to convince them I’m ok to move forward. The coordinator will be presenting me again to the committee next Friday.

I’m too young to accept this as my final fate. I have too much to live for and do to be stuck in dialysis for the rest of my life. I will do whatever it takes to move forward, even if it means more work on my heart (which is a goal in itself – to improve my heart situation – not just for my kidney, but because it’s my HEART!)

What scares me the most is the thought that, knowing how difficult it’s been to get accepted this time, there’s a good chance that should I need another transplant in the future (God forbid I do!!), I might not be able to get it. There’s no telling how much better/worse my heart will be then. I’m praying that I don’t have to go down this route again, but you never know, and I have to think about that.

So, to anyone who believes, please send your prayers, your positive thoughts, your good juju…whatever you have with hopes that I can finally receive this transplant and live my life again!

Link to donate – TBD

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Things I’m thankful for today:

1.  I’m almost finished with my Flow Therapy (EECP) to help improve my heart…just one more week! I’ve told the coordinator to mention this in her appeal to show the committee that I’m indeed treating the situation as needed!

2. Even though I have not actively been looking for jobs at this time, I’m still getting calls from recruiters! I’ve been nervous about how my time away from work has affected my chances, however, this gives me hope for when I finally DO start looking.

3. Now that it’s starting to warm up outside, I’m able to drive with my sunroof open and enjoy the breeze! It’s all about the little things…