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
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