Well, I am sure some of you know by now that Trish is back in the hospital. Her body continues to reject the liver. We were here a week ago and they administered 3 aggressive steroid treatments. Unfortunately it wasn't successful. Tonight she starts on a different immunosuppressant called thymoglobulin (a product from the gland of a rabbit). This is very aggressive and will really knock down her immunity system. This can come with some negative side effects, so they are going to administer the first treatment over 12 hrs. The next 3 treatments will be given over the next 4 to 8 days depending how her body can handle it. Hopefully this allows the oral anti rejection meds to take hold and keep rejection in check. This isn't unusual, its just the next logical step to stop rejection.
Keep her in your prayers.
Major Speed Bump - December 27, 2010
Me again,
Well I was very fortunate to be home for Christmas, and I am going to hang onto that blessing............as I head out for Omaha tomorrow morning at 5:30 am for another liver biopsy. My liver functions are higher than they were when I was in the hospital, and my bilirubin is creeping up again as well. Not the news I wanted by any means, but I will keep my chin up and get back down to the Med Center for what I need to have done. This process is frustrating, but I realize it is all a part of the roller coaster ride. If the biopsy once again shows moderate rejection, I will be readmitted to the hospital for more steroid treatments. If it does not show rejection, I will have to stay in Omaha to have my labs drawn for several days, or a week, or who knows. The labs from Kearney, especially my Prograf (anti-rejection med) levels are taking too long to get back, and the surgeon is quite concerned. The holiday may have played a part in this as well. I knew I didn't want to call the transplant coordinator today, but with some encouragement I did, I just wish the news would of been better.
I am so very thankful for a beautiful Christmas holiday with my family, that was priceless. The food was wonderful, and I got to see one of my oldest friends Jill who now lives in Texas. I really feel good, and it is hard to believe my numbers are so out of whack. I was tired yesterday, but I had wonderful care from everyone here. Thank you all for all of the beautiful Christmas cards, e-mails, and phone calls. The support is endless, and it lifts me up to face the next challenge.
All my love,
Trish
Well I was very fortunate to be home for Christmas, and I am going to hang onto that blessing............as I head out for Omaha tomorrow morning at 5:30 am for another liver biopsy. My liver functions are higher than they were when I was in the hospital, and my bilirubin is creeping up again as well. Not the news I wanted by any means, but I will keep my chin up and get back down to the Med Center for what I need to have done. This process is frustrating, but I realize it is all a part of the roller coaster ride. If the biopsy once again shows moderate rejection, I will be readmitted to the hospital for more steroid treatments. If it does not show rejection, I will have to stay in Omaha to have my labs drawn for several days, or a week, or who knows. The labs from Kearney, especially my Prograf (anti-rejection med) levels are taking too long to get back, and the surgeon is quite concerned. The holiday may have played a part in this as well. I knew I didn't want to call the transplant coordinator today, but with some encouragement I did, I just wish the news would of been better.
I am so very thankful for a beautiful Christmas holiday with my family, that was priceless. The food was wonderful, and I got to see one of my oldest friends Jill who now lives in Texas. I really feel good, and it is hard to believe my numbers are so out of whack. I was tired yesterday, but I had wonderful care from everyone here. Thank you all for all of the beautiful Christmas cards, e-mails, and phone calls. The support is endless, and it lifts me up to face the next challenge.
All my love,
Trish
Home for the Holiday - December 24, 2010
Merry Christmas,
We got some unexpected news today, I got to leave the hospital and go home for Christmas. The way my doctors were talking yesterday the chances of me getting out today were quite grim. I was admitted Wednesday afternoon following my liver biopsy with moderate rejection, which I thought was a small bump in the road. Dr. Sorrell said, it was a "moderate" bump in the road. He reminded me how well I have done, and not to get down over the rejection, we will get my medicine on the right track and be back on the right road to controlled liver numbers. He said due to the stronger meds they use today, they no longer lose patients to rejection, which is promising. I had my 3 days of IV steroid treatment, 1,000 mg per day, and they could not give me any more. My numbers had improved more than they thought they would this morning so I was released. I will go to Good Samaritan Hospital in Kearney tomorrow and Sunday for labs, then every day next week at the clinic to monitor my labs really close. If for some reason they increase again, I will have to have another liver biopsy, and go back to Omaha next Thursday. So we will pray for good numbers. For now I am going to enjoy being home with my family for Christmas. I was praying that I would not have to call home and tell my kids I would not be home for Christmas, another prayer was answered. Once again my care was wonderful, and I continue to feel great. I had some nausea earlier in the week but that has passed now.
They gave me no restrictions, but I will rest for this week. With all of the steroids that drives my immune system down, so I will be careful. Thank you for all of the continued support. Some of you, I won't mention any names (Kelli) cannot seem to follow directions very well. When she learned of my biopsy she told me she didn't have to work and would try to make it. I told her she had done so much, and I would have mom, Gracie, Tucker and Daniell there, so I really wanted her to stay home. As I was preparing to have my biopsy the nurse comes back and tells me I have a visitor, I thought it was Tucker, but no it was Kelli. I have said it before, you can't beat her off with a stick, and her support as been amazing. I love you Kelli, and thank you again. You are such a true friend through and through, but I still told you to stay home. :)
May you all have a glorious Christmas,
All my love to you,
Trish
We got some unexpected news today, I got to leave the hospital and go home for Christmas. The way my doctors were talking yesterday the chances of me getting out today were quite grim. I was admitted Wednesday afternoon following my liver biopsy with moderate rejection, which I thought was a small bump in the road. Dr. Sorrell said, it was a "moderate" bump in the road. He reminded me how well I have done, and not to get down over the rejection, we will get my medicine on the right track and be back on the right road to controlled liver numbers. He said due to the stronger meds they use today, they no longer lose patients to rejection, which is promising. I had my 3 days of IV steroid treatment, 1,000 mg per day, and they could not give me any more. My numbers had improved more than they thought they would this morning so I was released. I will go to Good Samaritan Hospital in Kearney tomorrow and Sunday for labs, then every day next week at the clinic to monitor my labs really close. If for some reason they increase again, I will have to have another liver biopsy, and go back to Omaha next Thursday. So we will pray for good numbers. For now I am going to enjoy being home with my family for Christmas. I was praying that I would not have to call home and tell my kids I would not be home for Christmas, another prayer was answered. Once again my care was wonderful, and I continue to feel great. I had some nausea earlier in the week but that has passed now.
They gave me no restrictions, but I will rest for this week. With all of the steroids that drives my immune system down, so I will be careful. Thank you for all of the continued support. Some of you, I won't mention any names (Kelli) cannot seem to follow directions very well. When she learned of my biopsy she told me she didn't have to work and would try to make it. I told her she had done so much, and I would have mom, Gracie, Tucker and Daniell there, so I really wanted her to stay home. As I was preparing to have my biopsy the nurse comes back and tells me I have a visitor, I thought it was Tucker, but no it was Kelli. I have said it before, you can't beat her off with a stick, and her support as been amazing. I love you Kelli, and thank you again. You are such a true friend through and through, but I still told you to stay home. :)
May you all have a glorious Christmas,
All my love to you,
Trish
Bump in the Road - December 23, 2010
Hello all,
I am writing a quick note from my hospital bed. Yes, you heard me right I am back in the hospital. They have been concerned about my liver function labs increasing, and even after a change of my meds they continued to climb, so the team requested that I have a liver biopsy on Wednesday morning. That worked out well because I was already flying into Omaha late on Tuesday night after working in Florida for the day. In my mind I would have my biopsy, hang out to make sure there was no bleeding and be on my way. Unfortunately I got a call late yesterday afternoon that my biopsy showed moderate rejection, and they needed to admit me for 3 days of high dose, IV steroid treatment, 1,000 mg per dose.
If all goes well I will be released on Christmas Eve, and by the look on Gracie's face I hope that happens.I convinced her to go home with mom and play with her cousins, and not spend 3 days in a hospital room.
I am confident in my care, and will pray the treatments will turn things around.
I wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. I am so excited to give this holiday season, I have been given so much, and I am so thankful.Hopefully I will also get some of the cookies baked that I have mixed up in my refrigerator.
God Bless You All,
Trish
I am writing a quick note from my hospital bed. Yes, you heard me right I am back in the hospital. They have been concerned about my liver function labs increasing, and even after a change of my meds they continued to climb, so the team requested that I have a liver biopsy on Wednesday morning. That worked out well because I was already flying into Omaha late on Tuesday night after working in Florida for the day. In my mind I would have my biopsy, hang out to make sure there was no bleeding and be on my way. Unfortunately I got a call late yesterday afternoon that my biopsy showed moderate rejection, and they needed to admit me for 3 days of high dose, IV steroid treatment, 1,000 mg per dose.
If all goes well I will be released on Christmas Eve, and by the look on Gracie's face I hope that happens.I convinced her to go home with mom and play with her cousins, and not spend 3 days in a hospital room.
I am confident in my care, and will pray the treatments will turn things around.
I wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. I am so excited to give this holiday season, I have been given so much, and I am so thankful.Hopefully I will also get some of the cookies baked that I have mixed up in my refrigerator.
God Bless You All,
Trish
Note from Rick Smith: December 17, 2010
Trish,
Sending an email to let you know am thinking and have thought of you often. So glad to hear you are doing so very well. Tears coming now, but tears of happiness. You take care and we are sending you wishes of all sorts.
Merry Christmas, love you - Beth and Rick Smith and girls.
Sending an email to let you know am thinking and have thought of you often. So glad to hear you are doing so very well. Tears coming now, but tears of happiness. You take care and we are sending you wishes of all sorts.
Merry Christmas, love you - Beth and Rick Smith and girls.
Quick Update - December 16, 2010
Hello All,
I just wanted to send you all an update. I got a call from the transplant coordinator earlier this week to see if I had a cold because my liver function tests had increased. I am feeling fine. Then I got another call yesterday, and my Prograf levels in my blood, which is my anti-rejection med is almost non-existent. It has been around 8, which is right where they want it. I went off my anti-fungal med last week, and they said that can make the Prograf levels drop. Therefore they doubled my dose as of yesterday. They had also decreased my steroid intake to 10mg per day on Tuesday, and for now that has not changed. I am hoping this med change will bring my Liver function tests back down. Of course by increasing the Prograf that can harm my kidneys. My initial dose was so low, hopefully the increase will not affect them.
I wrote my first letter to my donor family yesterday. For all of you that know me well, you are aware that finding words to say has never been an issue for me, but yesterday I sat at my computer and struggled. It was so important to me to express my gratitude in a way that they could feel it when they read my letter. After shedding many tears, and starting over several times, I hope I did just that.
My family also returned to court last week in hopes of putting this new appeal behind us, which we thought we had. However there was a document that the judge overlooked when making his decision that there would not be a new trial, he must now take that under advisement and get back to us once again. In the big picture we all realize this will be a life long fight to keep him in jail, but we would just like to put it behind us for awhile. The main thing is, he is where he needs to be, so we will count our blessings and roll with the punches. My nephew, Tracy's son is returning tomorrow from his training for the National guard in South Carolina. I know it was a hard decision for him to leave his family and join the guards, and we are all very proud of him. Tracy would have been as well. He will return in 2 weeks, then graduate the end of January. I will get some pictures over Christmas to post on the blog.
We have so much to be thankful for this Christmas season.
All My Love,
Trish
I just wanted to send you all an update. I got a call from the transplant coordinator earlier this week to see if I had a cold because my liver function tests had increased. I am feeling fine. Then I got another call yesterday, and my Prograf levels in my blood, which is my anti-rejection med is almost non-existent. It has been around 8, which is right where they want it. I went off my anti-fungal med last week, and they said that can make the Prograf levels drop. Therefore they doubled my dose as of yesterday. They had also decreased my steroid intake to 10mg per day on Tuesday, and for now that has not changed. I am hoping this med change will bring my Liver function tests back down. Of course by increasing the Prograf that can harm my kidneys. My initial dose was so low, hopefully the increase will not affect them.
I wrote my first letter to my donor family yesterday. For all of you that know me well, you are aware that finding words to say has never been an issue for me, but yesterday I sat at my computer and struggled. It was so important to me to express my gratitude in a way that they could feel it when they read my letter. After shedding many tears, and starting over several times, I hope I did just that.
My family also returned to court last week in hopes of putting this new appeal behind us, which we thought we had. However there was a document that the judge overlooked when making his decision that there would not be a new trial, he must now take that under advisement and get back to us once again. In the big picture we all realize this will be a life long fight to keep him in jail, but we would just like to put it behind us for awhile. The main thing is, he is where he needs to be, so we will count our blessings and roll with the punches. My nephew, Tracy's son is returning tomorrow from his training for the National guard in South Carolina. I know it was a hard decision for him to leave his family and join the guards, and we are all very proud of him. Tracy would have been as well. He will return in 2 weeks, then graduate the end of January. I will get some pictures over Christmas to post on the blog.
We have so much to be thankful for this Christmas season.
All My Love,
Trish
Follow up CT scan - December 9, 2010
Hello My Dear Friends,
Yesterday we travelled back to Omaha for a follow-up CT scan of my
chest. We had an appointment with the transplant infectious disease
doctors to follow. My fungal lung lesions were unchanged, so they are
going to stop my fungal medication and leave me alone, NO biopsy.
What a blessing. I was all ready to fight, and I didn't even have
to. I also had a transplant clinic appointment which went great.
They are just amazed at how well I am doing. I met a new internal
medicine doctor yesterday and he just looked at me and shook his
head. My liver numbers are fantastic, along with the rest of my
labs. It was funny, he asked me if I wanted to go home, and I told
him I had already been home for two weeks. I was released to work if
I want, however I am still restricted to lifting 10 lbs due to my
incision for another 2 weeks, so traveling with a suitcase by myself
could be a challenge. I will behave and do what they say, I do not
want a hernia now. I won't return to UNMC for another 6 weeks, and
that will be a follow-up with Dr. Sorrell. I have so much to be
thankful for.
While I was in the hospital it was the 25th anniversary of the first
liver transplant. Dr. Sorrell had stopped to see me and met Gracie
while he was there. He asked if him and his wife Shirley could take
her to the ceremony they were having to celebrate the 25 years of
liver transplants, and 40 years of kidney transplants. I have
attached a picture of Dr. Sorrell and Gracie from that day. She was
so proud to accompany them. I was sad Peyton wasn't up there to go
along as well. She had a great time meeting one of the first
transplant patients, as well as the first transplant surgeon. I also
found out what number of transplant I was at UNMC, I was #83 in 2010,
and #2705 since the program began in 1985. They have come a long way
since I was a student at UNMC from 1990-1993.
Once again thank you all for the continued support of my journey. I
have been overwhelmed by all of the cards, gifts, e-mails and phone
calls. The generosity and kindness continues to overwhelm my hear.
With the help of all of you, I am prepared to write my first letter to
the donor family. I pray for a response, but I also understand if I
do not receive one. Enjoy the holiday season and blessings that it
brings.
Love,
Trish
Yesterday we travelled back to Omaha for a follow-up CT scan of my
chest. We had an appointment with the transplant infectious disease
doctors to follow. My fungal lung lesions were unchanged, so they are
going to stop my fungal medication and leave me alone, NO biopsy.
What a blessing. I was all ready to fight, and I didn't even have
to. I also had a transplant clinic appointment which went great.
They are just amazed at how well I am doing. I met a new internal
medicine doctor yesterday and he just looked at me and shook his
head. My liver numbers are fantastic, along with the rest of my
labs. It was funny, he asked me if I wanted to go home, and I told
him I had already been home for two weeks. I was released to work if
I want, however I am still restricted to lifting 10 lbs due to my
incision for another 2 weeks, so traveling with a suitcase by myself
could be a challenge. I will behave and do what they say, I do not
want a hernia now. I won't return to UNMC for another 6 weeks, and
that will be a follow-up with Dr. Sorrell. I have so much to be
thankful for.
While I was in the hospital it was the 25th anniversary of the first
liver transplant. Dr. Sorrell had stopped to see me and met Gracie
while he was there. He asked if him and his wife Shirley could take
her to the ceremony they were having to celebrate the 25 years of
liver transplants, and 40 years of kidney transplants. I have
attached a picture of Dr. Sorrell and Gracie from that day. She was
so proud to accompany them. I was sad Peyton wasn't up there to go
along as well. She had a great time meeting one of the first
transplant patients, as well as the first transplant surgeon. I also
found out what number of transplant I was at UNMC, I was #83 in 2010,
and #2705 since the program began in 1985. They have come a long way
since I was a student at UNMC from 1990-1993.
Once again thank you all for the continued support of my journey. I
have been overwhelmed by all of the cards, gifts, e-mails and phone
calls. The generosity and kindness continues to overwhelm my hear.
With the help of all of you, I am prepared to write my first letter to
the donor family. I pray for a response, but I also understand if I
do not receive one. Enjoy the holiday season and blessings that it
brings.
Love,
Trish
Hello Again...December 3, 2010
Me again,
I came across this picture taken of me post-op, hating the ventilator
and the hand restraints. I cannot believe how far I have come in 3
short weeks, and this picture reminds me of that. That was one of the
worst experiences I have ever had, however with all of the good
fortune I have had since, it seems like a distant memory. I compare
it to childbirth. It was really tough going through it at the time,
but once you see what miracle comes out of the pain your memory allows
you to forget how horrible it was. I am so thankful for that. I just
wanted to share this with you all. There is no holding back now,
after all you have seen my scar. For all of you that thought that may
have been too much information, there was that group of you that were
thinking to yourself, I wonder what her scar looks like? You know who
you are. Have a great weekend, and don't forget to count your
blessings, I count all of you as mine.
Trish
I came across this picture taken of me post-op, hating the ventilator
and the hand restraints. I cannot believe how far I have come in 3
short weeks, and this picture reminds me of that. That was one of the
worst experiences I have ever had, however with all of the good
fortune I have had since, it seems like a distant memory. I compare
it to childbirth. It was really tough going through it at the time,
but once you see what miracle comes out of the pain your memory allows
you to forget how horrible it was. I am so thankful for that. I just
wanted to share this with you all. There is no holding back now,
after all you have seen my scar. For all of you that thought that may
have been too much information, there was that group of you that were
thinking to yourself, I wonder what her scar looks like? You know who
you are. Have a great weekend, and don't forget to count your
blessings, I count all of you as mine.
Trish
Post-Op Update: December 3, 2010
Hello All,
I am 3 weeks post-op, and have been home over a week. Other than being tired come evening, I feel really good. I have no pain, and haven't had to take any of my pain meds. That is huge to me, because my pill intake is high enough everyday. I went back to UNMC yesterday for clinic and all of my labs look fantastic, the Dr. was so pleased. They may even decrease my steroid pills again next week. They also changed my lab schedule to just once a week. I will return next week for a CT scan of my lungs to see if the anti-fungal meds that I have been taking have decreased the size of the lung lesions. If not the Dr. I saw yesterday said another lung biopsy would be discussed. They can discuss it, but I am not up for that. So that is still up in the air. I will pray for a clear CT scan. Everything is great on my end, and I hope this finds all of you doing well and enjoying the holiday season. I will tell you all , the christmas lights are much brighter to me this year, and I have such a wonderful sense of peace in my heart. My gift came on November 10, 2010 and I am so blessed.
Happy Holidays,
Trish
I am 3 weeks post-op, and have been home over a week. Other than being tired come evening, I feel really good. I have no pain, and haven't had to take any of my pain meds. That is huge to me, because my pill intake is high enough everyday. I went back to UNMC yesterday for clinic and all of my labs look fantastic, the Dr. was so pleased. They may even decrease my steroid pills again next week. They also changed my lab schedule to just once a week. I will return next week for a CT scan of my lungs to see if the anti-fungal meds that I have been taking have decreased the size of the lung lesions. If not the Dr. I saw yesterday said another lung biopsy would be discussed. They can discuss it, but I am not up for that. So that is still up in the air. I will pray for a clear CT scan. Everything is great on my end, and I hope this finds all of you doing well and enjoying the holiday season. I will tell you all , the christmas lights are much brighter to me this year, and I have such a wonderful sense of peace in my heart. My gift came on November 10, 2010 and I am so blessed.
Happy Holidays,
Trish
Going Home: November 24, 2010
Happy Thanksgiving!!!!!
I am so overwhelmed writing this e-mail. The doctor released me to go home, and come back next Thursday for clinic. I cannot believe it. We will go have blood drawn at my clinic back home on Saturday and Wednesday, then travel back here on Thursday. The doctor said all of my labs are excellent, and I will already decrease one of my meds tomorrow. They also removed all of my staples today, that feels better for sure. How wonderful it will be to be home for the holiday, and sleep in my own bed. Although I am giving up prime rib here :(. To tell you the truth it still does not seem real. The tears of joy just keep coming. We are so thankful for the Simmonds family for so graciously taking us into their home, and treating us like royalty. They have sure earned a special place in my heart, and hope to have a visit from them in my home very soon.
So I called my mom, and told her she would have 4 more mouths to feed tomorrow, so I hope there is enough. I miss them all so much. This has been an amazing journey with countless blessings along the way. Enjoy your holiday, and stay safe and warm.
All My Love,
Trish
I am so overwhelmed writing this e-mail. The doctor released me to go home, and come back next Thursday for clinic. I cannot believe it. We will go have blood drawn at my clinic back home on Saturday and Wednesday, then travel back here on Thursday. The doctor said all of my labs are excellent, and I will already decrease one of my meds tomorrow. They also removed all of my staples today, that feels better for sure. How wonderful it will be to be home for the holiday, and sleep in my own bed. Although I am giving up prime rib here :(. To tell you the truth it still does not seem real. The tears of joy just keep coming. We are so thankful for the Simmonds family for so graciously taking us into their home, and treating us like royalty. They have sure earned a special place in my heart, and hope to have a visit from them in my home very soon.
So I called my mom, and told her she would have 4 more mouths to feed tomorrow, so I hope there is enough. I miss them all so much. This has been an amazing journey with countless blessings along the way. Enjoy your holiday, and stay safe and warm.
All My Love,
Trish
Scar: November 23, 2010
Hello All,
Another day, and getting stronger and stronger. The pendulum has sure swung on my weight. I gained 40 pounds in the hospital, and am now down 11 pounds from my preop weight. When they told me during the healing process I could lay in bed and my body would still burn 2,000 calories a day healing, they were not lying. I am really working on my intake of calories, and my appetite gets better each day, so bring on the Turkey and mashed potatoes. I thought I would share a picture of my incision, so I apologize if this is too much detail for some of you. It was much smaller than I thought it would be, with 21 staples holding it all together. I am so happy to have it, with a new healthy liver I thought I would show it off. Of course Peyton told me that since I was 40 now, and have a scar it was probably time to hang up the bikini anyway. Those kids, they have such a way with words. But at least they are honest, you gotta love them for that. I really don't know much more. I have been working a little and it feels good. I want all of you to have a wonderful Thanksgiving. I can't wait to hug my kids, I sure miss them. I am thankful for so many blessings in my life, and this includes all of you, my heart overflows with hope.
God Bless You All,
Trish
Another day, and getting stronger and stronger. The pendulum has sure swung on my weight. I gained 40 pounds in the hospital, and am now down 11 pounds from my preop weight. When they told me during the healing process I could lay in bed and my body would still burn 2,000 calories a day healing, they were not lying. I am really working on my intake of calories, and my appetite gets better each day, so bring on the Turkey and mashed potatoes. I thought I would share a picture of my incision, so I apologize if this is too much detail for some of you. It was much smaller than I thought it would be, with 21 staples holding it all together. I am so happy to have it, with a new healthy liver I thought I would show it off. Of course Peyton told me that since I was 40 now, and have a scar it was probably time to hang up the bikini anyway. Those kids, they have such a way with words. But at least they are honest, you gotta love them for that. I really don't know much more. I have been working a little and it feels good. I want all of you to have a wonderful Thanksgiving. I can't wait to hug my kids, I sure miss them. I am thankful for so many blessings in my life, and this includes all of you, my heart overflows with hope.
God Bless You All,
Trish
Up and Running: November 20, 2010
Hello All,
I am released. They dismissed me on Thursday afternoon. Dad was my care giver that day and did wonderful getting me all packed up and out of there. He went and got my "bag" of meds, got us checked out of the Nebraska House, which was the on campus outpatient hotel they had been staying at, and we headed to the Marriott for a nice rest. My sister Tonya was at school board meetings at that hotel, so that worked out well. Dad took me back to the hospital yesterday for my first physical therapy appointment, which went well. Larry got back into town around noon and we got moved into his cousin's until I am released to head home. Everyday I am stronger and stronger. I really feel darn good, it is amazing. Our friend Diane Kelly was coming to Omaha this weekend so she dropped the kids off today, and they will leave tomorrow afternoon. I really miss them, so I was overjoyed that worked out. We have some visitors coming by today as well, and will hang out watching the Husker game. Our accommodations are wonderful, and I am being very well taken care of. My fluid is finally decreasing, so I am looking less and less like an Ogre from Shrek. Thanks again for all of the support, it has been great. We will start our routine Monday of lab draws, PT, and clinic visits, in hopes to get me home soon.
Love,
Trish
I am released. They dismissed me on Thursday afternoon. Dad was my care giver that day and did wonderful getting me all packed up and out of there. He went and got my "bag" of meds, got us checked out of the Nebraska House, which was the on campus outpatient hotel they had been staying at, and we headed to the Marriott for a nice rest. My sister Tonya was at school board meetings at that hotel, so that worked out well. Dad took me back to the hospital yesterday for my first physical therapy appointment, which went well. Larry got back into town around noon and we got moved into his cousin's until I am released to head home. Everyday I am stronger and stronger. I really feel darn good, it is amazing. Our friend Diane Kelly was coming to Omaha this weekend so she dropped the kids off today, and they will leave tomorrow afternoon. I really miss them, so I was overjoyed that worked out. We have some visitors coming by today as well, and will hang out watching the Husker game. Our accommodations are wonderful, and I am being very well taken care of. My fluid is finally decreasing, so I am looking less and less like an Ogre from Shrek. Thanks again for all of the support, it has been great. We will start our routine Monday of lab draws, PT, and clinic visits, in hopes to get me home soon.
Love,
Trish
My cup runneth over......again, and again November 18, 2010
Hello All,
I am sitting here in my chair this morning so blessed, that it beyond overwhelming. My experience has been just that, and I am so thankful for all of the support, wonderful patient care, and hope that all of you send me. It is truly a Thanksgiving holiday gift that I will never forget. I often think about the donor family and their heartache this holiday season, in hopes that I can create the words in a letter to express my true gratitude, and admiration for the gift of life. I feel a little tired today, but I am stronger as each day passes. The doctors said my body is responding so well to the new liver, and they could not be happier with the lab tests. I will get released either this afternoon, or tomorrow morning. My dad is here with me today, and I have really enjoyed the visit and help he has given me. Larry headed home last night to get some things done today, and will return tomorrow.
Larry has been an absolute pillar of strength and support through all of this, and I am so very thankful. He has been truly amazing, and I will forever be thankful. Birdeen, you should be so proud of the boy you raised. Once again thank you all for the cards, flowers, calls and e-mails. I am surrounded by so much strength from all of you, it lifts me up.
Love,
Trish
I am sitting here in my chair this morning so blessed, that it beyond overwhelming. My experience has been just that, and I am so thankful for all of the support, wonderful patient care, and hope that all of you send me. It is truly a Thanksgiving holiday gift that I will never forget. I often think about the donor family and their heartache this holiday season, in hopes that I can create the words in a letter to express my true gratitude, and admiration for the gift of life. I feel a little tired today, but I am stronger as each day passes. The doctors said my body is responding so well to the new liver, and they could not be happier with the lab tests. I will get released either this afternoon, or tomorrow morning. My dad is here with me today, and I have really enjoyed the visit and help he has given me. Larry headed home last night to get some things done today, and will return tomorrow.
Larry has been an absolute pillar of strength and support through all of this, and I am so very thankful. He has been truly amazing, and I will forever be thankful. Birdeen, you should be so proud of the boy you raised. Once again thank you all for the cards, flowers, calls and e-mails. I am surrounded by so much strength from all of you, it lifts me up.
Love,
Trish
Trish's Update Wednesday PM: November 17, 2010
Today has been just a great day. Hemoglobin levels have remained stable. She is eating solid food. She walked 18 stair steps today. She has a appetite and is eating well, drinking is no problem, right now she is kind of like the Meat Loaf Song, two out of three ain't bad. She just needs to get the 3rd job accomplished, and they will release her. Trish is getting stronger everyday right before my eyes. I want to thank all of you for your support, your thoughts and prayers, all of the flowers and cards. Her room is the envy of the hospital, it smells like a flower shop. Thank you so much for those of you taking care of our kids, we could not have gotten thru all of this without you. I am heading home tonight for a couple of days to sew up loose ends. I hope to come back on Friday am and take her to my cousins house where we will reside for a few weeks.
Lar
Lar
Trish's Update as of Tuesday PM: November 16, 2010
Today has gone much better, we keep seeing more and more improvement. Her hemoglobin has remained steadily at 9.8, without any help. She has been cleared to eat anything she wants, which has made her day. She was starting to get a little hungry, don't know why, she at a meal a week ago. Her vital signs are great, liver is performing well, and her spirits have been lifted. I don't want to say we are out of the woods, but I think we are close. Doctor says when she can eat, drink and _ _ _ _ , she can be released from the hospital.
Lar
Lar
Trish's Update - Monday Evening: November 15, 2010
Well our day has gotten better. Trish started the day with hemoglobin count at 10.4 after receiving 2 units of blood thru the night. At noon she improved to 11.1 and the lab at 6pm was 10.4. This is a big improvement over the last couple of days. Hopefully we are done needing blood. The doctor today said we will continue doing what we are doing, surgery does not seem necessary. Trish felt great today, she took a shower, brushed her teeth. She started a clear fluid diet today, which has made her feel much better. She has gained 30 lbs due to water retention, she's swollen like a tick on a dog in July. Doctor says it will come off real quick. Thats all for now.
Lar
Lar
Note: From Brenden - November 15, 2010
Dear Trish,
Hello this is Brenden. I just wanted to let you know that I'm happy that you're feeling better. I bet that you were pretty excited when you got the call from the hospital. I might get to see you on Tuesday when I come to get my Crohn's disease treatment. Tell Gracie I said hi please. Maeli says hi too. I hope you keep doing well in the hospital.
Your friend,
Brenden
P.S. I hope you get to feeling well so you can make me some more good lunch/dinner! ha, ha :)
Hello this is Brenden. I just wanted to let you know that I'm happy that you're feeling better. I bet that you were pretty excited when you got the call from the hospital. I might get to see you on Tuesday when I come to get my Crohn's disease treatment. Tell Gracie I said hi please. Maeli says hi too. I hope you keep doing well in the hospital.
Your friend,
Brenden
P.S. I hope you get to feeling well so you can make me some more good lunch/dinner! ha, ha :)
Sunday Afternoon - November 14, 2010
We have moved from icu now to a regular room today. Her hemoglobin worked its way from 8.7 to 9.3 on its own in a half of day, requiring no additional blood. She was feeling pretty good today, she had quite a few visitors and was able to visit with each and every one of them. They pulled her ng tube as well as her catheter. However her hemoglobin has dropped to 7.3 this evening. This is puzzling. She is going to receive more blood this evening and try to get it back up to 10. Unfortunately we keep having these setbacks along the way.
Lar
Lar
Sunday Morning Update: November 14, 2010
Well we made it through the night without a hitch. They drew blood at midnight and the result was a 9.3 hemoglobin, and drew it again at 5am and that result was 8.7 hemoglobin. So I guess they continue to monitor, and they have blood on standby in case she drops to 8. I am not sure what this all means, one thing is for sure is that she did not bleed as much last night as the night before. She feels a lot better this morning, she talked with her mom and sister on the phone. I wish, I knew more, and I will give you more info once we speak with a doctor. Keep up the prayers.
Lar
Lar
Update: November 13, 2010
Trish's hemoglobin is up to 10 which is a normal level. They will continue to monitor those levels all night. If we can have that number come morning it would then appear that the bleeding has stopped. Her blood pressure has remained stable all day. She has been in and out of sleep all day. This seems to have really worn her out today. I won't know much more until morning, I will update when we hear from the lab in the morning.
Lar
Lar
Update on Trish - November 13, 2010
Last night gave us a small setback. Trish woke up this morning to go to the restroom and felt nauseated. Her NG tube was showing signs of dark red blood. Her hemoglobin count was down to 6.8 and her blood pressure was down. This was indicating she is bleeding somewhere. They took her back to icu and scoped her. The scoped indicated that the blood was not coming from her liver, or where the roux was connected to the liver. It was not coming from her stomach, they looked around as far as the scope could reach, they could not see where the blood came from. The scope also indicated there was no fresh blood being released. What they learned is the bleeding has stopped, and has to be coming from where the roux was connected to the intestine, or where they removed the pancreatic tissue from the lower intestine. They gave her four units of blood, she is stable and they are going to monitor her hemoglobin and blood pressure. Her liver functions are fine. We expect to remain in icu for the remainder of the weekend. Right now she is doing fine.
Note: ' Your New Friend' - Amy Bjork - November 12, 2010
Hi Trish,
Bless your heart! (And your new liver, too!)
You don't know me - my sister Andrea works with your friend Kelli and that is how I heard about you. I was having a less-than-perfect day and called my sister in hopes of receiving a good giggle, or some other sort of pick-me-up (she's very good at that). She said, "Well, I've got a really positive story for you if you want to hear it...". I replied, "PLEASE!" and she began telling me your beautiful story. I have spent the better part of the afternoon reading your blog (through teary eyes) and just wanted to thank you for sharing your journey with us. Your positive and winning attitude, give us all hope and is such an amazing inspiration. Our world is very lucky to have people like you in it!
I'm so glad to see that you are doing well Trish and wish you a swift, painless and complete recovery! I just wanted to let you know that you have a new friend sending you love, prayers and happy thoughts from Seattle, WA. :)
Much love,
Amy Bjork
Bless your heart! (And your new liver, too!)
You don't know me - my sister Andrea works with your friend Kelli and that is how I heard about you. I was having a less-than-perfect day and called my sister in hopes of receiving a good giggle, or some other sort of pick-me-up (she's very good at that). She said, "Well, I've got a really positive story for you if you want to hear it...". I replied, "PLEASE!" and she began telling me your beautiful story. I have spent the better part of the afternoon reading your blog (through teary eyes) and just wanted to thank you for sharing your journey with us. Your positive and winning attitude, give us all hope and is such an amazing inspiration. Our world is very lucky to have people like you in it!
I'm so glad to see that you are doing well Trish and wish you a swift, painless and complete recovery! I just wanted to let you know that you have a new friend sending you love, prayers and happy thoughts from Seattle, WA. :)
Much love,
Amy Bjork
Good Health... November 12, 2010
Good morning, afternoon, or evening everybody.
Just a quick update to brighten your days! By the way this is Gracie. Right now we have Jan Ferguson, Tonya Smith, Larry Grote, Scott Giebler, Tom Ferguson, and of course (best os all) me, Gracie J. Grote. Oh! And my mom, Trish. Anyway, she is doing great. She still has N/G (Nasil Gogastrice tube) in, but they might get it out tomorrow or the next day. They are accepting visitors so you can come and visit anytime. And the mailing address, I think you already got yesterday, but if not, just e-mail me back and I'll give it to you. And any questions, I'll try my best to answer them. And you can call any time and talk to me, my dad, or even my mom. Feel free. I hope you are all doing well! For more updates, visit my facebook page at www.facebook.com and when you sign in type Gracie Grote in the search box and you should find me. I hope to see you soon! Have a absolutely splendid day!
-Gracie
Just a quick update to brighten your days! By the way this is Gracie. Right now we have Jan Ferguson, Tonya Smith, Larry Grote, Scott Giebler, Tom Ferguson, and of course (best os all) me, Gracie J. Grote. Oh! And my mom, Trish. Anyway, she is doing great. She still has N/G (Nasil Gogastrice tube) in, but they might get it out tomorrow or the next day. They are accepting visitors so you can come and visit anytime. And the mailing address, I think you already got yesterday, but if not, just e-mail me back and I'll give it to you. And any questions, I'll try my best to answer them. And you can call any time and talk to me, my dad, or even my mom. Feel free. I hope you are all doing well! For more updates, visit my facebook page at www.facebook.com and when you sign in type Gracie Grote in the search box and you should find me. I hope to see you soon! Have a absolutely splendid day!
-Gracie
Note: From Sheila Stern - November 11, 2010
Awesome!!! I wish you a quick recovery and that this Thanksgiving Day will be an extra special day for you and your family.
Best wishes and prayers sent your way!
Sheila
Best wishes and prayers sent your way!
Sheila
Note: From an old friend...Tiffany Stauffer Osborn - November 11, 2010
Hi, I am a friend of Trish's, I have not seen her since after hs. I have never known what had become of her, but kept her friendship and laughter inside me for years. Through facebook I have connected with other friends of ours, and found out from Lori Eby Blotskie of her condition. I am so excited that she is still riding, she always loved to ride, and the last time I was on a horse it was with her on a horse named J.R.
It is strange to be excited to hear news of a long lost friend and somber that the news is full of tribulation. To see Trish's family, husband, her kids for the first time...its a blessing. And to see her surrounded by such hope and support is beautiful and fills me with faith.
So Trish, check it out....You are going to be just fine, cause its gonna take some time for us to get caught up. You are in my prayers, Trust in Lord and lean not on your own understanding....
My Best,
Tiffany Stauffer Osborn
It is strange to be excited to hear news of a long lost friend and somber that the news is full of tribulation. To see Trish's family, husband, her kids for the first time...its a blessing. And to see her surrounded by such hope and support is beautiful and fills me with faith.
So Trish, check it out....You are going to be just fine, cause its gonna take some time for us to get caught up. You are in my prayers, Trust in Lord and lean not on your own understanding....
My Best,
Tiffany Stauffer Osborn
Note: From Sharri Miner - November 11,2010
Trish,
Wow—words can’t explain the joy I am feeling for You, Larry, and the kids right now! It’s another miracle-one you deserve! I can’t wait to see you!
Prayers and hugs,
Sharri
Wow—words can’t explain the joy I am feeling for You, Larry, and the kids right now! It’s another miracle-one you deserve! I can’t wait to see you!
Prayers and hugs,
Sharri
The Gift of Life is Amazing!! - November 11, 2010
Early morning greetings,
It is 6:35 am and I am sitting up watching and visiting, what a glorious day. The most uncomfortable part of the procedure so far was waking up with the breathing tube and being very alert for another 5 1/2 hours, it was terribly uncomfortable. I finally went of the ventilator at 2;30 pm, giving much relief. My first time sitting up in the chair occurred 14 hrs after surgery, its just amazing. My care has been top notch, I have had very little pain, only 3mg of pain meds. It has been wonderful having family and freinds around to help support me, Gracie is a great little jr. nurse. Peyton is excited to come see his mother, I miss him so much.
My heart sinks everytime I think of the victim and their family that suffered a loss to give me the gift of life.
I want my family to know I wont be home to host xmas, seems like a weak excuse but I am gonna have to pass on hosting this year. The plan today is to start walking and by the middle of the day get released from intensive care. I just want to thank all of you for your emails, texts, concerining my surgery, but most of all, all of your thoughts and prayers. A special thanks to Kayla for covering my jewelry shows, and the Kizer family for taking in Peyton and a dog. I have more hope than fear now.
Love to you all,
Trish
It is 6:35 am and I am sitting up watching and visiting, what a glorious day. The most uncomfortable part of the procedure so far was waking up with the breathing tube and being very alert for another 5 1/2 hours, it was terribly uncomfortable. I finally went of the ventilator at 2;30 pm, giving much relief. My first time sitting up in the chair occurred 14 hrs after surgery, its just amazing. My care has been top notch, I have had very little pain, only 3mg of pain meds. It has been wonderful having family and freinds around to help support me, Gracie is a great little jr. nurse. Peyton is excited to come see his mother, I miss him so much.
My heart sinks everytime I think of the victim and their family that suffered a loss to give me the gift of life.
I want my family to know I wont be home to host xmas, seems like a weak excuse but I am gonna have to pass on hosting this year. The plan today is to start walking and by the middle of the day get released from intensive care. I just want to thank all of you for your emails, texts, concerining my surgery, but most of all, all of your thoughts and prayers. A special thanks to Kayla for covering my jewelry shows, and the Kizer family for taking in Peyton and a dog. I have more hope than fear now.
Love to you all,
Trish
From Gracie - November 10, 2010
Hello all,
This is Gracie Grote (the daughter of Trish Grote) and I thought you would just like to hear the story...
Well, first of all, my mom was headed to a jewlery party in Elm Creek. She had just left the garage when she drove back up and came in the house with this astonished and surprised look on her face. And I knew. I said 'UNMC??!!!!' and she nodded franticly. So I jumped on the 4-wheeler and floored it down to the cornfield to get Peyton (my brother) because he was setting up a trail camera. I was hauling butt yelling 'Peyton! Peyton! PEYTON! Mom just got called in! Let's go!!!!!!!!'. he said 'WHAT?! Oh my gosh! Move over and let me drive!' and when we got to the house mom said to pack a bag AND QUICK! But Peyton didn't want to come quite yet because he didn't want to see my mom in that condition and he said he had to take care of the animals and stuff so he is staying with some neighbors. Me, Mom, Grandma Jan, and Aunt Tonya got in the car, dropped off jewlery of at a woman's house, and we high tailed it to Omaha arriving at 8:45pm while Kelli (my moms UNMC friend) arrived at 8:00pm already giving us crap about being forty-five minutes after her. (wink wink) I guess she is just fast. So we got all of the tesing and stuff over with and went to a room where there was more testing and waiting for a positive sight of the liver. And when that happened, it was 11:15pm to 11:30pm when they got done doing the biopsy to the liver, they came in and said quote: "It's a go." So of course we had to say our good-byes and let her go, which was SOOOOOOOOOOO HARD, as you might know. So we got progress phone calls every hour, hour and a half and they were always good reports. And then the australian docter came and said she did great, and found some strange things in the liver but got it out. So as of right now mom is in the ICU (Intensive Care Unit) and we are waiting to see her. Thenk you for all of your wonderful thoughts and prayers. We will keep praying, and hope everything else goes well.
As of 15 hours ago the journey begins.
Gracie
This is Gracie Grote (the daughter of Trish Grote) and I thought you would just like to hear the story...
Well, first of all, my mom was headed to a jewlery party in Elm Creek. She had just left the garage when she drove back up and came in the house with this astonished and surprised look on her face. And I knew. I said 'UNMC??!!!!' and she nodded franticly. So I jumped on the 4-wheeler and floored it down to the cornfield to get Peyton (my brother) because he was setting up a trail camera. I was hauling butt yelling 'Peyton! Peyton! PEYTON! Mom just got called in! Let's go!!!!!!!!'. he said 'WHAT?! Oh my gosh! Move over and let me drive!' and when we got to the house mom said to pack a bag AND QUICK! But Peyton didn't want to come quite yet because he didn't want to see my mom in that condition and he said he had to take care of the animals and stuff so he is staying with some neighbors. Me, Mom, Grandma Jan, and Aunt Tonya got in the car, dropped off jewlery of at a woman's house, and we high tailed it to Omaha arriving at 8:45pm while Kelli (my moms UNMC friend) arrived at 8:00pm already giving us crap about being forty-five minutes after her. (wink wink) I guess she is just fast. So we got all of the tesing and stuff over with and went to a room where there was more testing and waiting for a positive sight of the liver. And when that happened, it was 11:15pm to 11:30pm when they got done doing the biopsy to the liver, they came in and said quote: "It's a go." So of course we had to say our good-byes and let her go, which was SOOOOOOOOOOO HARD, as you might know. So we got progress phone calls every hour, hour and a half and they were always good reports. And then the australian docter came and said she did great, and found some strange things in the liver but got it out. So as of right now mom is in the ICU (Intensive Care Unit) and we are waiting to see her. Thenk you for all of your wonderful thoughts and prayers. We will keep praying, and hope everything else goes well.
As of 15 hours ago the journey begins.
Gracie
6:00 am - November 10, 2010
This just in! After a phone call confirming she was on the table at 1:30am, and some progress phone calls, Trish's surgeon just met with us at 6 am to tell us the surgery went well. We should be able to see her in about an hour. Her surgeon said that they looked around while they were in and did biopsy a couple of lymph nodes and they were normal. He did say that they found some ectopic (not in the normal place) pancreas tissue on her bowel so he took that out. He said that this was rare, imagine that! Trish continues to keep everyone on their toes!
She has been incredibly strong through this thus far and we expect no less.
Kelli and Gracie
She has been incredibly strong through this thus far and we expect no less.
Kelli and Gracie
It's GO Time!!!! - November 9, 2010
At 4:47 pm, Tuesday, Nov 9th, Trish received "the call". After some frantic packing, Jan, Tonya, Gracie and Trish arrived at UNMC at 8:45 pm. Kelli drove in from Sioux City (without a speeding ticket) and arrived at 8pm. Larry arrived at 9:30pm from McPherson, Kansas. Trish was admitted to her room and the testing began. All the nurses and staff are still trying to figure out how she ended up here! After a couple of excruciating attempts at an arterial line, she is relatively comfortable. The protocol states that once the liver is "in the house", it still has to be biopsied to make sure it is the perfect match. Basically UNMC wants to verify what shape the liver is in since it is coming from another hospital. We don't know if it is coming via chopper or fixed wing, but we now have verification at 12:10 am that the liver is here!
12:15 pm, it is OFFICIAL! With hugs and kisses we sent her off. She is in the best of hands and that gives us great comfort. Keep her in your prayers and we will update you as we know more.
12:15 pm, it is OFFICIAL! With hugs and kisses we sent her off. She is in the best of hands and that gives us great comfort. Keep her in your prayers and we will update you as we know more.
'The Call'....finally came... November 9, 2010
Trish got the call this afternoon that there is a donor liver that is a match for her. She is on her way there now. There are still some final factors before everything is a 'for sure' go. More details as soon as we have them.
Let's all send our prayers Trish's way.
Whitney
Let's all send our prayers Trish's way.
Whitney
Quick Update - November 5, 2010
Hey All,
I just wanted to drop a quick note to fill you in on all of the tests they ran last week. All of the labs, other than my sed rate and C-reactive protein, were once again normal. None of the additional testing for the fungus came up positive. The increased sed rate and C-reactive protein just show that there is inflammation some where in my body, my liver maybe? The infectious disease doctors were wanting to do a bronchoscopy to get another sample of my lung, however Dr. Sorrell and the liver surgeon disagree, and they will leave me alone.
I had hoped to not mention this for years to come, but we will have to go back to court for Tracy on the 29th of November. Her murderer would like a hearing so the judge can explain to him why the appeal was denied, and of course that was granted. He will be on speaker phone, asking his questions, and the judge will explain to him that when you take a young woman and beat her to death, you don't deserve a new trial. Those may be my words, so if they let me speak look out. Either way I will be there to support everyone involved.
Gracie, Peyton and I moved cattle last saturday for some friends, (Peyton was on a 4-wheeler, Larry was in a pick-up) then we went up to Calamus lake with some good friends and rode our horses on the beach. When I get the pictures back I will post them. It was a glorious day, for 2 reasons, we got to ride, and we beat Missouri in football. I cherish those days when Gracie and I get to ride together, it is wonderful. I guess I will have to take up hunting to hang out with Peyton, horses aren't his thing. Thank you all for your continued support, prayers, cards and gifts . All of you help me to be a stronger person. You lift my spirits up so high.
I am so blessed,
Trish
I just wanted to drop a quick note to fill you in on all of the tests they ran last week. All of the labs, other than my sed rate and C-reactive protein, were once again normal. None of the additional testing for the fungus came up positive. The increased sed rate and C-reactive protein just show that there is inflammation some where in my body, my liver maybe? The infectious disease doctors were wanting to do a bronchoscopy to get another sample of my lung, however Dr. Sorrell and the liver surgeon disagree, and they will leave me alone.
I had hoped to not mention this for years to come, but we will have to go back to court for Tracy on the 29th of November. Her murderer would like a hearing so the judge can explain to him why the appeal was denied, and of course that was granted. He will be on speaker phone, asking his questions, and the judge will explain to him that when you take a young woman and beat her to death, you don't deserve a new trial. Those may be my words, so if they let me speak look out. Either way I will be there to support everyone involved.
Gracie, Peyton and I moved cattle last saturday for some friends, (Peyton was on a 4-wheeler, Larry was in a pick-up) then we went up to Calamus lake with some good friends and rode our horses on the beach. When I get the pictures back I will post them. It was a glorious day, for 2 reasons, we got to ride, and we beat Missouri in football. I cherish those days when Gracie and I get to ride together, it is wonderful. I guess I will have to take up hunting to hang out with Peyton, horses aren't his thing. Thank you all for your continued support, prayers, cards and gifts . All of you help me to be a stronger person. You lift my spirits up so high.
I am so blessed,
Trish
Quick Update - November 5, 2010
Hey All,
I just wanted to drop a quick note to fill you in on all of the tests they ran last week. All of the labs, other than my sed rate and C-reactive protein, were once again normal. None of the additional testing for the fungus came up positive. The increased sed rate and C-reactive protein just show that there is inflammation some where in my body, my liver maybe? The infectious disease doctors were wanting to do a bronchoscopy to get another sample of my lung, however Dr. Sorrell and the liver surgeon disagree, and they will leave me alone.
I had hoped to not mention this for years to come, but we will have to go back to court for Tracy on the 29th of November. Her murderer would like a hearing so the judge can explain to him why the appeal was denied, and of course that was granted. He will be on speaker phone, asking his questions, and the judge will explain to him that when you take a young woman and beat her to death, you don't deserve a new trial. Those may be my words, so if they let me speak look out. Either way I will be there to support everyone involved.
Gracie, Peyton and I moved cattle last saturday for some friends, (Peyton was on a 4-wheeler, Larry was in a pick-up) then we went up to Calamus lake with some good friends and rode our horses on the beach. When I get the pictures back I will post them. It was a glorious day, for 2 reasons, we got to ride, and we beat Missouri in football. I cherish those days when Gracie and I get to ride together, it is wonderful. I guess I will have to take up hunting to hang out with Peyton, horses aren't his thing. Thank you all for your continued support, prayers, cards and gifts . All of you help me to be a stronger person. You lift my spirits up so high.
I am so blessed,
Trish
I just wanted to drop a quick note to fill you in on all of the tests they ran last week. All of the labs, other than my sed rate and C-reactive protein, were once again normal. None of the additional testing for the fungus came up positive. The increased sed rate and C-reactive protein just show that there is inflammation some where in my body, my liver maybe? The infectious disease doctors were wanting to do a bronchoscopy to get another sample of my lung, however Dr. Sorrell and the liver surgeon disagree, and they will leave me alone.
I had hoped to not mention this for years to come, but we will have to go back to court for Tracy on the 29th of November. Her murderer would like a hearing so the judge can explain to him why the appeal was denied, and of course that was granted. He will be on speaker phone, asking his questions, and the judge will explain to him that when you take a young woman and beat her to death, you don't deserve a new trial. Those may be my words, so if they let me speak look out. Either way I will be there to support everyone involved.
Gracie, Peyton and I moved cattle last saturday for some friends, (Peyton was on a 4-wheeler, Larry was in a pick-up) then we went up to Calamus lake with some good friends and rode our horses on the beach. When I get the pictures back I will post them. It was a glorious day, for 2 reasons, we got to ride, and we beat Missouri in football. I cherish those days when Gracie and I get to ride together, it is wonderful. I guess I will have to take up hunting to hang out with Peyton, horses aren't his thing. Thank you all for your continued support, prayers, cards and gifts . All of you help me to be a stronger person. You lift my spirits up so high.
I am so blessed,
Trish
I have always loved this picture of my kids and Larry..
 |
| They were so excited when they caught that huge catfish out of our pond. It is probably at least 3 years old, but it always makes me smile when I see it. The little boy is Garrett, a friend from Overton who came out to fish. |
Appointment With Dr. Sorrell - October 27, 2010
Hello All,
Larry and I travelled to UNMC in Omaha yesterday for a follow-up visit with Dr. Sorrell. My dear friend Kelli met us there, as she often does. I can't beat her off with a stick, and you know what I don't want to. She is a beautiful friend that continues to support me endlessly, and she gives me so much hope, I love her very much. It is not every day you hear people say " I enjoy going to see my doctor ", but it is always my pleasure to see Dr. Sorrell. I always leave feeling more positive about things than when I walked in. Once again all of the labs were normal, but they are wanting to investigate the fungus that I had in my lungs when they removed that nodule in June. His new fellow became concerned that when I receive my transplant, and they put me on the medication that will suppress my immune system, so I do not reject the liver, this fungus in my lungs could get worse and cause me to become ill. Right now I am "healthy" and my body can fight it, but once I become immunosuppressed that may not be the case. I know I have cancer, but I keep saying that I am healthy because that is how I feel. So..............Dr. Sorrell agreed with the fellow that I could see the infectious disease doctors, if they would be able to see me yesterday, since we live so far away. So after a STAT CT of my chest with contrast, and a quick lunch, we were back in internal medicine visiting with them. Once again the fungus that was found in my lung, is some bizarre type or it could possibly be TB. Leave it to me to never have anything that is normal. Through some additional blood work and urine testing they are hoping to pin point it and get me on the proper antifungal medication. Of course the "best" way to diagnose the type of fungus would be a biopsy. :( My lesions are so small however it would be very tough to hit one, as I already know from previous experience when they missed a lesion twice the size in June. So I am not volunteering for that procedure. The CT of my chest did show some growth of these small lesions, so they are convinced it is still active, although they see some signs of necrosis (death of tissue). I know all of this information is somewhat confusing, but what it comes down to, if I was not going to have a transplant my body would fight it on it's own, and I wish that were the case. These infectious medical doctors work with transplant patients only and they are very cautious. I hope to hear some news today, however, some of the blood tests take several days. They did say with the proper medication these lesions would disappear within a month.
On a positive note, Dr. Sorrell does not know why I haven't been transplanted yet, because they are transplanting MELD scores of 22-24 now, so it is just a matter of finding a match of blood type, and body size. My score of 25 puts me right where I want to be. He said to expect the call any day. He said he has to get me transplanted soon so his son, my good friend, Tom Sorrell will stop bugging him about it. I just love their sense of humor, and I appreciate them both very much. I am blessed.
Please continue to pray for my friends Scott and Celeste Wells. Scott is a patient at UNMC receiving his chemo, so he can get his stem cell transplant. He is ready to get on the road to recovery as well, I know exactly how he feels.
That is all I have for now. I really hope the next time I send out a message it is to say they have a liver, that is my exact match, and they really need my body to put it in. Once again, what an amazing gift that will be. Thank you all for your continued support, I appreciate it so much. God has a plan for me, so I will continue to believe and follow with lots of hope.
All my love,
Trish
Larry and I travelled to UNMC in Omaha yesterday for a follow-up visit with Dr. Sorrell. My dear friend Kelli met us there, as she often does. I can't beat her off with a stick, and you know what I don't want to. She is a beautiful friend that continues to support me endlessly, and she gives me so much hope, I love her very much. It is not every day you hear people say " I enjoy going to see my doctor ", but it is always my pleasure to see Dr. Sorrell. I always leave feeling more positive about things than when I walked in. Once again all of the labs were normal, but they are wanting to investigate the fungus that I had in my lungs when they removed that nodule in June. His new fellow became concerned that when I receive my transplant, and they put me on the medication that will suppress my immune system, so I do not reject the liver, this fungus in my lungs could get worse and cause me to become ill. Right now I am "healthy" and my body can fight it, but once I become immunosuppressed that may not be the case. I know I have cancer, but I keep saying that I am healthy because that is how I feel. So..............Dr. Sorrell agreed with the fellow that I could see the infectious disease doctors, if they would be able to see me yesterday, since we live so far away. So after a STAT CT of my chest with contrast, and a quick lunch, we were back in internal medicine visiting with them. Once again the fungus that was found in my lung, is some bizarre type or it could possibly be TB. Leave it to me to never have anything that is normal. Through some additional blood work and urine testing they are hoping to pin point it and get me on the proper antifungal medication. Of course the "best" way to diagnose the type of fungus would be a biopsy. :( My lesions are so small however it would be very tough to hit one, as I already know from previous experience when they missed a lesion twice the size in June. So I am not volunteering for that procedure. The CT of my chest did show some growth of these small lesions, so they are convinced it is still active, although they see some signs of necrosis (death of tissue). I know all of this information is somewhat confusing, but what it comes down to, if I was not going to have a transplant my body would fight it on it's own, and I wish that were the case. These infectious medical doctors work with transplant patients only and they are very cautious. I hope to hear some news today, however, some of the blood tests take several days. They did say with the proper medication these lesions would disappear within a month.
On a positive note, Dr. Sorrell does not know why I haven't been transplanted yet, because they are transplanting MELD scores of 22-24 now, so it is just a matter of finding a match of blood type, and body size. My score of 25 puts me right where I want to be. He said to expect the call any day. He said he has to get me transplanted soon so his son, my good friend, Tom Sorrell will stop bugging him about it. I just love their sense of humor, and I appreciate them both very much. I am blessed.
Please continue to pray for my friends Scott and Celeste Wells. Scott is a patient at UNMC receiving his chemo, so he can get his stem cell transplant. He is ready to get on the road to recovery as well, I know exactly how he feels.
That is all I have for now. I really hope the next time I send out a message it is to say they have a liver, that is my exact match, and they really need my body to put it in. Once again, what an amazing gift that will be. Thank you all for your continued support, I appreciate it so much. God has a plan for me, so I will continue to believe and follow with lots of hope.
All my love,
Trish
One More Prayer Answered - October 14, 2010
Hello All,
I did not plan on sending out another message this quick, but it was such good news I had to pass it on. Upon arriving home today from a glorious autumn horseback ride with a dear friend, my mom met me in the yard to tell me that my sister Tracy's murderer, was denied on his latest appeal for a new trial. Glory to God above, another prayer answered. Tracy won the battle today, and we are so thankful for that blessing. I am sure it won't be the last appeal, but it is over for now. I saw some much needed relief in my mom's eyes tonight, and I smiled and cried all at the same time. Once again, our prayers were answered, and I feel so much peace. That is a good feeling.
Just a quick note for those of you that didn't know, my oldest sister Tracy lost her life 10 years ago when her "boyfriend" chose to beat her to death. He got 45 years to life with a 2nd degree murder conviction, and on his second appeal was hoping to receive a new trial. She was such a kind hearted young woman, just 35 at the time of her death. We miss her everyday.
Love to you all,
Trisha
I did not plan on sending out another message this quick, but it was such good news I had to pass it on. Upon arriving home today from a glorious autumn horseback ride with a dear friend, my mom met me in the yard to tell me that my sister Tracy's murderer, was denied on his latest appeal for a new trial. Glory to God above, another prayer answered. Tracy won the battle today, and we are so thankful for that blessing. I am sure it won't be the last appeal, but it is over for now. I saw some much needed relief in my mom's eyes tonight, and I smiled and cried all at the same time. Once again, our prayers were answered, and I feel so much peace. That is a good feeling.
Just a quick note for those of you that didn't know, my oldest sister Tracy lost her life 10 years ago when her "boyfriend" chose to beat her to death. He got 45 years to life with a 2nd degree murder conviction, and on his second appeal was hoping to receive a new trial. She was such a kind hearted young woman, just 35 at the time of her death. We miss her everyday.
Love to you all,
Trisha
Good News....New MELD Score!! October 13, 2010
Hello All,
I send you all this message with joy in my heart. I heard from the transplant team today and my special exception points for my MELD score were accepted. What this means is that as of midnight tonight my MELD score will increase from 22 to 25, and hopefully get me closer to being "in the game". Another prayer answered, and I am so blessed. Thank you all for your continued support. I hope the next time Whitney updates my blog it is to inform you that I am on my way to Omaha for a transplant. That will be an amazing invitation, and gift of life. Have a great week. Go Huskers!!!!!
Trish
P.S. I get a lot of questions about the MELD score. My best suggestion is to google it, and it will give you more information than you may want. The highest possible score is a 40, which would be given to a patient that was gravely ill, with a short time to live without a transplant, and yet still qualifies to receive a transplant.
I send you all this message with joy in my heart. I heard from the transplant team today and my special exception points for my MELD score were accepted. What this means is that as of midnight tonight my MELD score will increase from 22 to 25, and hopefully get me closer to being "in the game". Another prayer answered, and I am so blessed. Thank you all for your continued support. I hope the next time Whitney updates my blog it is to inform you that I am on my way to Omaha for a transplant. That will be an amazing invitation, and gift of life. Have a great week. Go Huskers!!!!!
Trish
P.S. I get a lot of questions about the MELD score. My best suggestion is to google it, and it will give you more information than you may want. The highest possible score is a 40, which would be given to a patient that was gravely ill, with a short time to live without a transplant, and yet still qualifies to receive a transplant.
One Day at a Time - October 8, 2010
Fall Greetings to All,
I am sitting here in my office this morning, looking out my window feeling blessed with another beautiful Nebraska fall day. I was able to ride my horse yesterday and it felt better than ever. There is no better therapy for me, I wish I could share it with all of you that would be willing to crawl on the back of a 1200 lb animal. It has to be close to heaven.
Almost 3 months have gone by since they placed me on the liver transplant list. Therefore this past Tuesday we made a trip to Omaha for a follow-up MRI and labs. In order to receive special exception points and increase my MELD score these tests were required. My blood work continues to be completely NORMAL, which still baffles me. It would baffle all of you as well if you could see what my liver looks like on ultrasound. My MRI showed a slight increase in the size of my lesions. My prior study showed the 2 largest lesions measuring 3.8x3.4 cm, and 2.5x2.5 cm. Now they measure 4.3x3.8 cm and 2.7X2.6 cm. FYI, there are 2.5 cm in an inch. I would be lying if I told you this doesn't worry me, but I have to find a positive in everything (to keep my sanity) and all of my other organs look normal. So there is no evidence of tumor invasion anywhere else. Thank the Lord above. They will submit a letter and send it off to request the additional points. They are asking for a 3 point increase. If they accept the request, my MELD score will increase to a 25. If all of you will pray with me for that 3 point gift, I would appreciate it.
I continue to feel great, and I am so thankful for that. Once again I cannot thank you enough for all of the e-mails, cards, calls, gifts and support. I couldn't take this journey without all of you behind me giving me the strength to fight with all I have. I am lifted up by the kindness and generosity I have received. I will update you "when" they raise my MELD score. I return to see Dr. Sorrell at the end of the month. I feel so good, and look as "normal" as I always have, (I know some of you are laughing right now, I expect that ) that I actually scanned my liver for my mom the other day to show her my tumors so she would "believe" that I have cancer. I told her I wasn't faking it :). On a more serious note, I just feel so bad for my parents and my sister for this additional stress. As most of you know, we lost my oldest sister Tracy when she was murdered 10 years ago. My mom is one of the strongest women I have ever known, and I see her struggling with this and the "reality" of another enormous fight. When you wonder some days how much more can you take? It is more than you can ever imagine. We are currently fighting for Tracy again. Her murderer is appealing his sentence in hopes of getting a new trial. Of course we will fight for her, because of him she can't fight for herself any longer. She had the kindest heart, I strive to be more like her. She was never one to judge another. She was a friend to everyone, and gave all she could including her last dollar, never asking for anything in return.
Bless each and every one of you. Get out there and enjoy these beautiful fall days, and if you have a chance to climb on a horse and take a ride, think of me and enjoy every minute, because you will never get that minute back. Plus, the house work will be there when the snow is flying.
Love to you all,
Trisha
I am sitting here in my office this morning, looking out my window feeling blessed with another beautiful Nebraska fall day. I was able to ride my horse yesterday and it felt better than ever. There is no better therapy for me, I wish I could share it with all of you that would be willing to crawl on the back of a 1200 lb animal. It has to be close to heaven.
Almost 3 months have gone by since they placed me on the liver transplant list. Therefore this past Tuesday we made a trip to Omaha for a follow-up MRI and labs. In order to receive special exception points and increase my MELD score these tests were required. My blood work continues to be completely NORMAL, which still baffles me. It would baffle all of you as well if you could see what my liver looks like on ultrasound. My MRI showed a slight increase in the size of my lesions. My prior study showed the 2 largest lesions measuring 3.8x3.4 cm, and 2.5x2.5 cm. Now they measure 4.3x3.8 cm and 2.7X2.6 cm. FYI, there are 2.5 cm in an inch. I would be lying if I told you this doesn't worry me, but I have to find a positive in everything (to keep my sanity) and all of my other organs look normal. So there is no evidence of tumor invasion anywhere else. Thank the Lord above. They will submit a letter and send it off to request the additional points. They are asking for a 3 point increase. If they accept the request, my MELD score will increase to a 25. If all of you will pray with me for that 3 point gift, I would appreciate it.
I continue to feel great, and I am so thankful for that. Once again I cannot thank you enough for all of the e-mails, cards, calls, gifts and support. I couldn't take this journey without all of you behind me giving me the strength to fight with all I have. I am lifted up by the kindness and generosity I have received. I will update you "when" they raise my MELD score. I return to see Dr. Sorrell at the end of the month. I feel so good, and look as "normal" as I always have, (I know some of you are laughing right now, I expect that ) that I actually scanned my liver for my mom the other day to show her my tumors so she would "believe" that I have cancer. I told her I wasn't faking it :). On a more serious note, I just feel so bad for my parents and my sister for this additional stress. As most of you know, we lost my oldest sister Tracy when she was murdered 10 years ago. My mom is one of the strongest women I have ever known, and I see her struggling with this and the "reality" of another enormous fight. When you wonder some days how much more can you take? It is more than you can ever imagine. We are currently fighting for Tracy again. Her murderer is appealing his sentence in hopes of getting a new trial. Of course we will fight for her, because of him she can't fight for herself any longer. She had the kindest heart, I strive to be more like her. She was never one to judge another. She was a friend to everyone, and gave all she could including her last dollar, never asking for anything in return.
Bless each and every one of you. Get out there and enjoy these beautiful fall days, and if you have a chance to climb on a horse and take a ride, think of me and enjoy every minute, because you will never get that minute back. Plus, the house work will be there when the snow is flying.
Love to you all,
Trisha
Tessy Shares Her Father's Transplant Journey - October 2, 2010
Trish
Hello my name is Tessy and I ran across this blog while looking at stuff about liver donors. I just wanted to tell Trish that my thoughts and prayers are with her and her family. I have been taking care of my 55 yr old father for 6 years and on July 23, 2010 the lord blessed him with a liver transplant. He was diagnosed with Hepatitis C and hepatocellular carcinoma also a primary liver cancer. It has been the most amazing blessing I have ever received. For the first 5 years we were seeing a Dr. that told us he could not be listed for a transplant because of his condition, and then August 11, 2009 my father was medi-flighted to a hospital in the city due to internal bleeding. While we were there a team of liver Drs came to see him and wanted to know why he was not on the list, needless to say I jumped on the phone and called a transplant center in Dallas, TX who immediately scheduled an appointment to start the pre-transplant evaluation. The next couple months were so rocky; he had such sever problems with Hepatic encephalopathy (if you do not know much about this please educate yourself and your family it happens as you get sicker), at one point he went into a coma, also the fluid retention, and so on. Anyways on March 23rd 2010 he was listed with a MELD of 19 but upgraded to a 22 for the HCC, and then exactly 4 months to the day of enlistment we received that life altering call. The surgery went amazing, they said he would be on the ventilator for 24 hours and within 4 he was out breathing the machine so they took him off, then they said it would be a week before he would be walking and he started walking to the bathroom the very next day!!!!!! His mentality came back with in a week and I have a father again and its only been 2 and half months!!!!!!!!! It has been the most amazing journey ever and if you would ever like to talk please don’t hesitate to contact me!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Tessy Copeland
Hello my name is Tessy and I ran across this blog while looking at stuff about liver donors. I just wanted to tell Trish that my thoughts and prayers are with her and her family. I have been taking care of my 55 yr old father for 6 years and on July 23, 2010 the lord blessed him with a liver transplant. He was diagnosed with Hepatitis C and hepatocellular carcinoma also a primary liver cancer. It has been the most amazing blessing I have ever received. For the first 5 years we were seeing a Dr. that told us he could not be listed for a transplant because of his condition, and then August 11, 2009 my father was medi-flighted to a hospital in the city due to internal bleeding. While we were there a team of liver Drs came to see him and wanted to know why he was not on the list, needless to say I jumped on the phone and called a transplant center in Dallas, TX who immediately scheduled an appointment to start the pre-transplant evaluation. The next couple months were so rocky; he had such sever problems with Hepatic encephalopathy (if you do not know much about this please educate yourself and your family it happens as you get sicker), at one point he went into a coma, also the fluid retention, and so on. Anyways on March 23rd 2010 he was listed with a MELD of 19 but upgraded to a 22 for the HCC, and then exactly 4 months to the day of enlistment we received that life altering call. The surgery went amazing, they said he would be on the ventilator for 24 hours and within 4 he was out breathing the machine so they took him off, then they said it would be a week before he would be walking and he started walking to the bathroom the very next day!!!!!! His mentality came back with in a week and I have a father again and its only been 2 and half months!!!!!!!!! It has been the most amazing journey ever and if you would ever like to talk please don’t hesitate to contact me!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Tessy Copeland
From Gracie - September 30, 2010
"My mom is a wonderful women as all of you know. She is full of all kinds of things such as, kindness, creativeness, helpfulness, beauty, and MUCH, MUCH, more! She is the best mother a kid could have. When I'm sick, she cares for me. When I'm hurt, she helps me until I'm back on my feet. When I'm sad, she cheers me up. When I'm mad, she cools me down. When I need help, she does whatever she can to help me. And when I heard she had cancer, she sat there and cried with me. And I know whatever happens in the future, she will still care for me, still help me until I'm back on my feet, still cheer me up, and still cool me down, still help me when I need it, and still cry with me.
I love you mom!!!!! :)
P.S.
Your still the bomb! ;) lol
I love you mom!!!!! :)
P.S.
Your still the bomb! ;) lol
Note fom Pastor Sharon - September 8, 2010
Hi Trish,
So sorry to hear about the journey you are on. I think of you and yours often. Loved seeing the pics of the kids. May God walk with you and give you healing, strength and courage for all that is today. God has broad shoulders, and he will take care of you. Healing and love.
Pastor Sharon
So sorry to hear about the journey you are on. I think of you and yours often. Loved seeing the pics of the kids. May God walk with you and give you healing, strength and courage for all that is today. God has broad shoulders, and he will take care of you. Healing and love.
Pastor Sharon
The Blessings Are Endless - September 8, 2010
Hello all -
It has been a remarkable few days in my life, for several reasons. Through my story, and because of the wonderful blog created for me, a inspiring gentleman by the name of Andy Donnelly contacted me. Andy was diagnosed with HEH in December of 2000, when he presented with symptoms the doctors felt were gallbladder related, and therefore ordered an ultrasound. At the time of his diagnosis, there were only around 200 reported known cases of HEH world wide. So when I state that I have a rare primary liver cancer, that is truly an understatement. At that time the doctors were baffled as to how to treat his disease. An oncologist did try some chemo, however the cancer did not respond at all. He even went to a cancer center in Houston, and they pretty much wished him luck, and sent him on his way. Once he saw the liver specialist they eventually tested him for a transplant, in hopes it would cure his cancer, and he was placed on the list in May of 2003. It took about 1 1/2 to 2 years after his diagnosis for Andy to show signs of liver failure. He told me from day one, his tumors did not increase in size or number, that is very encouraging to me. I am so thankful he has come into my life. Another prayer is answered.
I not only had the wonderful opportunity to speak to Andy today about the fact that we had the same type of Liver cancer in common, I had no idea when I placed the phone call this morning it was his 7 year anniversary of his transplant. He received his transplant on this day 7 years ago, what a remarkable day to celebrate, and I was fortunate to wish him well.
To top off this news, several of my dear and beautiful friends held a benefit for me and my family on Friday September 3rd. The benefit included a meal with a free will donation, a silent auction and live auction of items donated, and yes karaoke was provided. I do not believe I have ever witnessed so much kindness and generosity at one time. They fed around 350 people. It brought so many people together in what I feel was more than a benefit for medical expenses and lost work, it was a celebration of life, and what a precious gift it is. I hope it was a promotion of what it means to donate life, and consider becoming a organ donor. I want that message to be loud and clear to everyone out there that will listen, for all of those waiting for a donor. It was beautiful, and once again I am so thankful for the kindness and generosity of so many, my cup runneth over.
I am still waiting for "the call", but I am waiting with so much peace and love in my heart that my anxiety and fear have faded. I am full of hope to help overcome those feelings. Thank you again for all of the prayers, cards, phone calls, e-mails, and gifts. I appreciate it all so much, and I vow to pay it forward. I do have one request, a dear friend of mine is having the same type of thoracic VATS procedure this Thursay, Sept 9th with Dr. Trujillo at UNMC, and if you all could send up a prayer for Scott I would appreciate it. All my love to all of you. I promise to update you all when I do get that special invitation to Omaha for my transplant.
May you all have enough,
Trish
It has been a remarkable few days in my life, for several reasons. Through my story, and because of the wonderful blog created for me, a inspiring gentleman by the name of Andy Donnelly contacted me. Andy was diagnosed with HEH in December of 2000, when he presented with symptoms the doctors felt were gallbladder related, and therefore ordered an ultrasound. At the time of his diagnosis, there were only around 200 reported known cases of HEH world wide. So when I state that I have a rare primary liver cancer, that is truly an understatement. At that time the doctors were baffled as to how to treat his disease. An oncologist did try some chemo, however the cancer did not respond at all. He even went to a cancer center in Houston, and they pretty much wished him luck, and sent him on his way. Once he saw the liver specialist they eventually tested him for a transplant, in hopes it would cure his cancer, and he was placed on the list in May of 2003. It took about 1 1/2 to 2 years after his diagnosis for Andy to show signs of liver failure. He told me from day one, his tumors did not increase in size or number, that is very encouraging to me. I am so thankful he has come into my life. Another prayer is answered.
I not only had the wonderful opportunity to speak to Andy today about the fact that we had the same type of Liver cancer in common, I had no idea when I placed the phone call this morning it was his 7 year anniversary of his transplant. He received his transplant on this day 7 years ago, what a remarkable day to celebrate, and I was fortunate to wish him well.
To top off this news, several of my dear and beautiful friends held a benefit for me and my family on Friday September 3rd. The benefit included a meal with a free will donation, a silent auction and live auction of items donated, and yes karaoke was provided. I do not believe I have ever witnessed so much kindness and generosity at one time. They fed around 350 people. It brought so many people together in what I feel was more than a benefit for medical expenses and lost work, it was a celebration of life, and what a precious gift it is. I hope it was a promotion of what it means to donate life, and consider becoming a organ donor. I want that message to be loud and clear to everyone out there that will listen, for all of those waiting for a donor. It was beautiful, and once again I am so thankful for the kindness and generosity of so many, my cup runneth over.
I am still waiting for "the call", but I am waiting with so much peace and love in my heart that my anxiety and fear have faded. I am full of hope to help overcome those feelings. Thank you again for all of the prayers, cards, phone calls, e-mails, and gifts. I appreciate it all so much, and I vow to pay it forward. I do have one request, a dear friend of mine is having the same type of thoracic VATS procedure this Thursay, Sept 9th with Dr. Trujillo at UNMC, and if you all could send up a prayer for Scott I would appreciate it. All my love to all of you. I promise to update you all when I do get that special invitation to Omaha for my transplant.
May you all have enough,
Trish
Andy Donnelly - Shares his life experience and reaches out to Trish - September 3, 2010
Trish -
I 'had' the exact same type of cancer as you, which is incredibly rare. I had a liver transplant 7 years ago on 9.8.03 in Kansas City at KU Med Center. If you would like I can speak with her about the whole process. I would be more than happy to do so. I work for a non-profit called Gift of Life in Kansas City and manage a Mentoring program for transplant patients either pre or post transplant. Our website is www.giftdonor.org I have an article about me that was just published in the KU Med Center magazine called Be Well. I will send that to you in another email.
I am now 47 years old and have become a Dad since my transplant. I still cannot believe how this surgery has saved my life!! I am able to do anything ( within reason ) that I would like to do. I have had a brief look at the blog that someone is running to assist Trisha during this difficult time. I also have names and contacts at the University of Kansas Hospital if anyone would like to get them.
I looking forward to speaking with you and anyone who is interested about the whole process.
Andy Donnelly
Life Mentors Program Manager
Gift of Life
andyd@giftdonor.org
Learn more at giftdonor.org
I 'had' the exact same type of cancer as you, which is incredibly rare. I had a liver transplant 7 years ago on 9.8.03 in Kansas City at KU Med Center. If you would like I can speak with her about the whole process. I would be more than happy to do so. I work for a non-profit called Gift of Life in Kansas City and manage a Mentoring program for transplant patients either pre or post transplant. Our website is www.giftdonor.org I have an article about me that was just published in the KU Med Center magazine called Be Well. I will send that to you in another email.
I am now 47 years old and have become a Dad since my transplant. I still cannot believe how this surgery has saved my life!! I am able to do anything ( within reason ) that I would like to do. I have had a brief look at the blog that someone is running to assist Trisha during this difficult time. I also have names and contacts at the University of Kansas Hospital if anyone would like to get them.
I looking forward to speaking with you and anyone who is interested about the whole process.
Andy Donnelly
Life Mentors Program Manager
Gift of Life
andyd@giftdonor.org
Learn more at giftdonor.org
Your Friend - Di Kelly - August 27, 2010
Trish,
I know your are going through a very difficult time in your life right now, but at the same time want you to know how very special you are and that so many people are lifting you up in prayer and thinking about you daily! Your attitude and strength through all of this has touched so many and we have learned so much! Wanted to remind you how supportive you were of me when I told you I was going to adopt a baby girl. You were there for me in so many ways and most importantly you were there when I left the hospital to take my beautiful little Colby Jean home. It meant the world to me then and still does to this day. I couldn’t have done it without the support of friends like you. I want you to know that I am here for you in anyway that you need me. God promises to take care of the little sparrows so he’ll take care of you. God’s Will, will never take you where the Grace Of God will not protect you!! Stay focused on him and know that you are loved!!
PS.
Have included pictures of that day at the hospital as well as what that little princess looks like today. Hope it puts a smile on your face.
Lovingly,
Di Kelly
A note from Joyce - July 29, 2010
Trish,
We just finished a week long course here in Arlington with the Vets and Techs, and we all missed your smiling face, happy attitude, and of course your jabs at Brad.
June is designing a cardiac table that can be cheaply and quickly built, and had Matt build a prototype of it last week. We auctioned the table off on Friday, because there were several vets that needed one. A vet from San Antonio kept the bid up and bought it for $1000. He then gave it right back for the group to bid on again. A vet from Colorado bid and won it for another $350...so we took the $1350 and have deposited it in the Wells Fargo account set up for you.
We have also had some staff donations to deposit as well. The whole group, both students and staff, had alot of fun doing this. Thanks to everyone for their donations!!
We miss you, girl! Stay strong.
Joyce
We just finished a week long course here in Arlington with the Vets and Techs, and we all missed your smiling face, happy attitude, and of course your jabs at Brad.
June is designing a cardiac table that can be cheaply and quickly built, and had Matt build a prototype of it last week. We auctioned the table off on Friday, because there were several vets that needed one. A vet from San Antonio kept the bid up and bought it for $1000. He then gave it right back for the group to bid on again. A vet from Colorado bid and won it for another $350...so we took the $1350 and have deposited it in the Wells Fargo account set up for you.
We have also had some staff donations to deposit as well. The whole group, both students and staff, had alot of fun doing this. Thanks to everyone for their donations!!
We miss you, girl! Stay strong.
Joyce
Counting My Blessings...July 23, 2010
Good Afternoon,
I wanted to write a quick note today to say hello and to tell you all about a blessing that I received today. One of my classmates from college and very good friend, Lisa Bartenhagan told me about a friend of hers that had a liver transplant 14 years ago, and she thought I may want to speak with her. We were able to connect today and after 35 minutes on the phone I felt as if I had found a new friend. Sharon was so easy to talk to, and made me feel very comfortable in a very scary situation. As I bombarded her with questions, she was so kind and patient to answer each and every one of them. We have made plans to meet the next time I am in Omaha, where she lives, and I cannot wait. Before Sharon had even spoken to me she invited me to her home to talk about the transplant. Even though we have not met, I can tell she is such a strong individual, with a contagious positive attitude. I thank God, and Lisa that she has come into my life. Like I have said before, I do have cancer, but with that has come many blessings and I am truly thankful.
I would also like to thank from the bottom of my heart Gracie's 4-H group, Boots-N-Spurs. They had a benefit lunch, raffle, and silent auction for us at a recent horse show to help with medical expenses. Their donation was so kind and generous that when they presented the check to us I was so overwhelmed and speechless. We appreciate it so much. There were many that donated items and I just want all of you to know how much it means to me. I am surrounded by many angels in my life and am truly blessed. Thank you Kelli for the heart warming message on my blog. You know me, I cried my way through it, and it meant so much. Have a great weekend and thanks again for all of the support.
Love Trish
I wanted to write a quick note today to say hello and to tell you all about a blessing that I received today. One of my classmates from college and very good friend, Lisa Bartenhagan told me about a friend of hers that had a liver transplant 14 years ago, and she thought I may want to speak with her. We were able to connect today and after 35 minutes on the phone I felt as if I had found a new friend. Sharon was so easy to talk to, and made me feel very comfortable in a very scary situation. As I bombarded her with questions, she was so kind and patient to answer each and every one of them. We have made plans to meet the next time I am in Omaha, where she lives, and I cannot wait. Before Sharon had even spoken to me she invited me to her home to talk about the transplant. Even though we have not met, I can tell she is such a strong individual, with a contagious positive attitude. I thank God, and Lisa that she has come into my life. Like I have said before, I do have cancer, but with that has come many blessings and I am truly thankful.
I would also like to thank from the bottom of my heart Gracie's 4-H group, Boots-N-Spurs. They had a benefit lunch, raffle, and silent auction for us at a recent horse show to help with medical expenses. Their donation was so kind and generous that when they presented the check to us I was so overwhelmed and speechless. We appreciate it so much. There were many that donated items and I just want all of you to know how much it means to me. I am surrounded by many angels in my life and am truly blessed. Thank you Kelli for the heart warming message on my blog. You know me, I cried my way through it, and it meant so much. Have a great weekend and thanks again for all of the support.
Love Trish
To Trish from Kelli - July 21, 2010
Trish,
When I walked onto the UNMC campus 18 years ago, scared and unsure, you were there. When I didn't even know what floor the NICU was on, you were there. When the pressure of school was on us and we needed to let off steam, you were there. When I needed to chat about life and I needed someone to listen, you were there. When I needed minor surgery right in middle of ultrasound school, you were there. When a bunch of kids failed to yield and left my car totaled in the intersection, you were there. When I was thinking about graduation and who would still be in my life, I knew you'd be there. When I looked to my left on my wedding day, you were there. When I moved all around the country, you were there. When I needed help with work in California, you were there. When I needed a friend, you were there.
When you first told me the news and I tried to make sense of it, I knew I'd be there. When you were at UNMC to find out the official diagnosis, I was there. When you came out, crying, and said, "this wasn't how it was supposed to be," I was there. When you needed a hug, I was there. When you needed to laugh, I was there. When you so strongly endured major thoracic surgery, I was there.
When you get the transplant call, I will be there. When you are healing, I will be there. When you want to scream, I will be there. When you want to laugh, I will be there. When you feel like it is too overwhelming, I will be there. When there are miles between us, just remember, I will be there. When you want to cry, I will be there. When you need a hug, I will be there. When you want to throw things, I will be there. When you are ready to dance in the living room, I will be there.
Trish, you said that you thought there was a reason that I moved back to the Midwest and you are right. I will be there.
I love you!
Kelli
When I walked onto the UNMC campus 18 years ago, scared and unsure, you were there. When I didn't even know what floor the NICU was on, you were there. When the pressure of school was on us and we needed to let off steam, you were there. When I needed to chat about life and I needed someone to listen, you were there. When I needed minor surgery right in middle of ultrasound school, you were there. When a bunch of kids failed to yield and left my car totaled in the intersection, you were there. When I was thinking about graduation and who would still be in my life, I knew you'd be there. When I looked to my left on my wedding day, you were there. When I moved all around the country, you were there. When I needed help with work in California, you were there. When I needed a friend, you were there.
When you first told me the news and I tried to make sense of it, I knew I'd be there. When you were at UNMC to find out the official diagnosis, I was there. When you came out, crying, and said, "this wasn't how it was supposed to be," I was there. When you needed a hug, I was there. When you needed to laugh, I was there. When you so strongly endured major thoracic surgery, I was there.
When you get the transplant call, I will be there. When you are healing, I will be there. When you want to scream, I will be there. When you want to laugh, I will be there. When you feel like it is too overwhelming, I will be there. When there are miles between us, just remember, I will be there. When you want to cry, I will be there. When you need a hug, I will be there. When you want to throw things, I will be there. When you are ready to dance in the living room, I will be there.
Trish, you said that you thought there was a reason that I moved back to the Midwest and you are right. I will be there.
I love you!
Kelli
 |
| Trish and Kelli 1993 - Cute bangs girls!! |
T
Follow Up Visit With Thoracic Surgeon - July 14, 2010
Hello All,
I wanted to write a short note to update everyone following my check-up with Dr. Trujillo, my Thoracic (Lung) surgeon. Once again I absolutely love her. We just clicked from the start, and that alone is such a relief. My sister Tonya and Gracie took me down to Omaha for my appointment. We drove 3 hours, and were not in the hospital for 45 mins, and that included my chest x-ray and Dr. appt. She said I recovered great, and I won't need to see her again. The lesion in my lungs was a fungal infection, which is very common in the midwest, but nothing to be concerned about. She removed my stitches and I was out the door. I am able to exercise again as tolerated. My only restrictions is lifting. I am still restricted to 10 lbs for 2 more weeks, then I can get back to normal. I am feeling like a human being again, just a small amount of fatigue here and there. Thank you all for the cards, calls, and e-mails, I appreciate them all. Try and stay cool. We just sit, wait, and pray for the liver now. God bless you all.
Trish
I wanted to write a short note to update everyone following my check-up with Dr. Trujillo, my Thoracic (Lung) surgeon. Once again I absolutely love her. We just clicked from the start, and that alone is such a relief. My sister Tonya and Gracie took me down to Omaha for my appointment. We drove 3 hours, and were not in the hospital for 45 mins, and that included my chest x-ray and Dr. appt. She said I recovered great, and I won't need to see her again. The lesion in my lungs was a fungal infection, which is very common in the midwest, but nothing to be concerned about. She removed my stitches and I was out the door. I am able to exercise again as tolerated. My only restrictions is lifting. I am still restricted to 10 lbs for 2 more weeks, then I can get back to normal. I am feeling like a human being again, just a small amount of fatigue here and there. Thank you all for the cards, calls, and e-mails, I appreciate them all. Try and stay cool. We just sit, wait, and pray for the liver now. God bless you all.
Trish
From Trish to her Co-Workers - July 9, 2010
When I found my job, I found the joy that work can bring, and with that came some remarkable people that I work with. It is my privilege to be able to work with all of them. Thank you all and especially Joyce for giving me a chance and hiring me.
Love,
Trish
Love,
Trish
I Am 'Officially' on the Transplant List!! - July 9, 2010
I heard from my transplant coordinator Wendy the past couple of days, and I am "officially" on the transplant list. She went on the list with a MELD score of a 9, but once the board receives a letter today from Dr. Sorrell, (Internal Medicine), Dr. Mercer (Transplant Surgeon), and Wendy, my score should jump to a 22 due to the fact I have cancer. Wendy told me today that she has had them update the score at 8:00 PM and the patient has gotten called 3 hours later. I am sure this is very rare, but it just makes us realize that it is real and can happen anytime now.
Once again, and always I want to thank everyone for all of the kindness, cards, flowers, monetary support, and prayers. I hope I am able to pay this forward one day to the overwhelming extent that I have experienced. I have cancer, and in the same breath I can say, I am so blessed. Thank you all for that.
Love,
Trisha
Once again, and always I want to thank everyone for all of the kindness, cards, flowers, monetary support, and prayers. I hope I am able to pay this forward one day to the overwhelming extent that I have experienced. I have cancer, and in the same breath I can say, I am so blessed. Thank you all for that.
Love,
Trisha
Update from Trish - July 3, 2010
Hello All,
First and always foremost thank you so much for the calls, cards, gifts, and prayers. I cannot express how overwhelmed I am by the generosity, I am so blessed. I had my thoracic surgery yesterday and our prayers were answered when we finally heard the word BENIGN, which means the lung lesions were NOT CANCER!!!!! It was some sort of inflammatory process, but we have not received the final report. I am recovering well, with the pain being well controlled. They put in an epidural catheter for pain control and it has worked well. I was up and walking yesterday, and have already walked for at least 40 minutes today. I was hoping to go home today but I had a small air leak, so we are hoping for tomorrow. I am so pleased with my surgeon, who is a young, sassy gal. We hit it off immediately, and she has been a blessing for a scary surgery. My liver doctor stopped by yesterday, and the team will meet next Wednesday to discuss my case once again, but there should be no reason that I won't go on the list that day. They only meet on Wednesday's, and they have to wait for the official pathology report. I have received excellent care and have had a wonderful support system. All of you take care and enjoy your holiday. I was going to spend mine in Paris at an equine meeting but I thought having my pleural cavity invaded sounded like more fun. There is always Paris, and I plan on visiting some day. Once again many thanks.
Trish
First and always foremost thank you so much for the calls, cards, gifts, and prayers. I cannot express how overwhelmed I am by the generosity, I am so blessed. I had my thoracic surgery yesterday and our prayers were answered when we finally heard the word BENIGN, which means the lung lesions were NOT CANCER!!!!! It was some sort of inflammatory process, but we have not received the final report. I am recovering well, with the pain being well controlled. They put in an epidural catheter for pain control and it has worked well. I was up and walking yesterday, and have already walked for at least 40 minutes today. I was hoping to go home today but I had a small air leak, so we are hoping for tomorrow. I am so pleased with my surgeon, who is a young, sassy gal. We hit it off immediately, and she has been a blessing for a scary surgery. My liver doctor stopped by yesterday, and the team will meet next Wednesday to discuss my case once again, but there should be no reason that I won't go on the list that day. They only meet on Wednesday's, and they have to wait for the official pathology report. I have received excellent care and have had a wonderful support system. All of you take care and enjoy your holiday. I was going to spend mine in Paris at an equine meeting but I thought having my pleural cavity invaded sounded like more fun. There is always Paris, and I plan on visiting some day. Once again many thanks.
Trish
VAT Surgery Follow UP - July 2, 2010
Early Thursday ( July 1, 2010) the doctor moved Trish's chest tube to a water seal so she could walk around, which she did on several 20 minutes jaunts.
There were a few near nauseous episodes but all were addressed. Today however is the big day. Chest tube comes out this a.m. with an immediate chest x-ray followed by another in 4 hours. Later today if all goes well, out comes catheter, epidural , etc. and if all goes according to plan she will get to go home TONIGHT. She is very excited about a 3 plus hour car ride home…
This could not have gone any quicker unless she had not had surgery.
Thank you all for your support. Though already long, the journey is really just getting out of the driveway. Your thoughts, prayers and continue friendship are vital for the desired outcome.
There were a few near nauseous episodes but all were addressed. Today however is the big day. Chest tube comes out this a.m. with an immediate chest x-ray followed by another in 4 hours. Later today if all goes well, out comes catheter, epidural , etc. and if all goes according to plan she will get to go home TONIGHT. She is very excited about a 3 plus hour car ride home…
This could not have gone any quicker unless she had not had surgery.
Thank you all for your support. Though already long, the journey is really just getting out of the driveway. Your thoughts, prayers and continue friendship are vital for the desired outcome.
VAT Surgery Follow UP - 5:00 am July 1, 2010
Trish rested well thru the night. She had a chest X-ray just now with a Digital system that went smoothly. Has taken her pain meds like a good patient and is resting again.
Has had no nausea ( major concern going in) and should be up in chair sometime today and maybe walking after receiving a water seal on her chest tube pump.
Has had no nausea ( major concern going in) and should be up in chair sometime today and maybe walking after receiving a water seal on her chest tube pump.
VAT Thoracic Surgery - Good News!! - June 30, 2010
Trish’s surgery today went great! The nodule was an inflammatory tissue process and the surgeon was sure it was NOT MALIGNANT. Will grow culture to see if antibiotics are necessary. Now Trish can move forward in the process of getting on the liver transplant list asap!! We are all praying for you Trish!
Update From Trish - June 11, 2010
Hello All,
Once again thank you all for your prayers, gifts, e-mails, and cards. It is truly a blessing to be surrounded by such wonderful and caring people. I cannot express this enough. I heard back from the Thoracic surgeon today. I am scheduled to see the surgeon on Tuedsay June 29th, and have surgery on Wednesday June 30th. The procedure I will be having is called a VATS procedure. It is a Video Assisted Thoracic Surgery. As far as I know, they will go in through my ribs and remove the lesion or lesions with the video assisting them. This procedure will be much less invasive than a traditional thoracotomy. My hospital stay will be anywhere from 3-5 days post surgery, and I will more than likely have to have a chest tube. I was hoping we could get done sooner, but that is just part of it. I am not sure God gave me the patience that I need right now, but I am trying to make the most of the blessings at hand. Good healthcare, wonderful friends and family, and the resources to find my cancer when I did. God bless all of you.
Trish
Once again thank you all for your prayers, gifts, e-mails, and cards. It is truly a blessing to be surrounded by such wonderful and caring people. I cannot express this enough. I heard back from the Thoracic surgeon today. I am scheduled to see the surgeon on Tuedsay June 29th, and have surgery on Wednesday June 30th. The procedure I will be having is called a VATS procedure. It is a Video Assisted Thoracic Surgery. As far as I know, they will go in through my ribs and remove the lesion or lesions with the video assisting them. This procedure will be much less invasive than a traditional thoracotomy. My hospital stay will be anywhere from 3-5 days post surgery, and I will more than likely have to have a chest tube. I was hoping we could get done sooner, but that is just part of it. I am not sure God gave me the patience that I need right now, but I am trying to make the most of the blessings at hand. Good healthcare, wonderful friends and family, and the resources to find my cancer when I did. God bless all of you.
Trish
Update From Trish - June 9, 2010
Hello to all of my dear friends,
Well I had my lung biopsy yesterday. Unfortunately it was very small and in a difficult spot for them to reach. To have the best shot they had to lay me on my stomach and go through my back. The lesion was located in front of my scapula (shoulder blade) which made the procedure quite challenging. My blood pressure, which always runs low, was too low for them to give me the usual pain meds, so they gave me a mild dose of something else and a lot of local anesthesia. It was tolerable and after quite some time, and approximately 10 samples later I was done. They did puncture my lung again, but after observing me for several hours they allowed us to go home. The radiologist that did the procedure felt that the lesion had been there a long time, and did not feel it was anything. So after getting our hopes up my Pulmonary doctor phoned me this morning to let us know that the sample was inconclusive. Which means they didn't hit the lesion. The radiologist was concerned this might happen, but felt he got a sample. So now the next step will be for me to see a Thoracic surgeon, and they will do surgery to remove the lesion. They are able to make a small incision and go in with a scope with video to remove the area and get us a diagnosis. This was not the news we had hoped for today, but we must roll with the punches, get back up, and continue to fight. I will do just that. Once again thank you for all of the prayers, cards, e-mails, phone calls, and gifts that I have received. The generosity is so overwhelming to me that I don't have the words to express my gratitude. It leaves me speechless. Which most of you know if very rare for me!!!!! Once again keep the prayers coming, and I promise to be strong, and face the challenge ahead.
God Bless You All,
Trish
Well I had my lung biopsy yesterday. Unfortunately it was very small and in a difficult spot for them to reach. To have the best shot they had to lay me on my stomach and go through my back. The lesion was located in front of my scapula (shoulder blade) which made the procedure quite challenging. My blood pressure, which always runs low, was too low for them to give me the usual pain meds, so they gave me a mild dose of something else and a lot of local anesthesia. It was tolerable and after quite some time, and approximately 10 samples later I was done. They did puncture my lung again, but after observing me for several hours they allowed us to go home. The radiologist that did the procedure felt that the lesion had been there a long time, and did not feel it was anything. So after getting our hopes up my Pulmonary doctor phoned me this morning to let us know that the sample was inconclusive. Which means they didn't hit the lesion. The radiologist was concerned this might happen, but felt he got a sample. So now the next step will be for me to see a Thoracic surgeon, and they will do surgery to remove the lesion. They are able to make a small incision and go in with a scope with video to remove the area and get us a diagnosis. This was not the news we had hoped for today, but we must roll with the punches, get back up, and continue to fight. I will do just that. Once again thank you for all of the prayers, cards, e-mails, phone calls, and gifts that I have received. The generosity is so overwhelming to me that I don't have the words to express my gratitude. It leaves me speechless. Which most of you know if very rare for me!!!!! Once again keep the prayers coming, and I promise to be strong, and face the challenge ahead.
God Bless You All,
Trish
Update from Trish - June 7, 2010
I got home from Omaha yesterday, after 3 days of pre-transplant testing I was ready to come home. Everything went really well, and was much easier than I ever dreamed it would be. They were unable to get me in for my lung biopsy so I will have to return next Tuesday for that procedure. I met with the transplant surgeon yesterday, and he was wonderful. He told me if the lung nodules come back malignant we will consult Oncology, and they can go in and do a VAT procedure to remove them. The lesions are so small they cannot see them on a plain chest x-ray, but there is one that is 1 cm that they feel confident that they will be able to get a sample of it. If they are benign, and we all pray they are, I will likely go on the transplant list on Wednesday. If we don't have a liver in 3 months we will write another letter and try to get me more points to move me up on the list. He is very confident that I will do very well, and he was so reassuring I could have hugged him. He thought the actual surgery would only take about 4 hours, that is truly amazing to me. His confidence made me feel very reassured, and I know in my heart (and liver) that I am in the right place. Due to the fact that I have cancer, my points for a transplant will allow me to be higher on the list. So keep the prayers coming, and we will hope for good results from the biopsy on Tuesday.
Subscribe to:
Comments (Atom)