Lungs At 26

It may be my birthday today, but CF doesn't give me a day off. CF has been kicking my butt the last few days, which is making my special day a little less bright. I'm trying to fight through the sickness I'm feeling, but a nap and a lot of tea drinking seem like the best presents I can give myself today. Tom has been so great with helping me through this time. Men seem to always want to fix things, and I just keep reminding him that cuddles, kisses and hand-holding are all that is required when I feel so crappy. He has done an excellent job at giving me as many cuddles as possible.

Events have happened lately that I have not got around to blogging about. In my little bubble of life it doesn't seem like such a big deal, but I figured I would finally share the latest happenings with all of you.

Last Saturday evening I got another phone call for lungs. Unfortunately, they were high-risk lungs once again. The doctor told me the donor was a prostitute and, at the time of testing at least, she was negative for HIV and all forms of hepatitis. The doctor went on to further explain that the donor's chest wasn't looking right and they were asking for more intensive testing to be done to find out more about the lungs and how viable they were. The high risk factor and the unknown viability of the lungs made me realize the lungs were not for me. As much as I wanted them to be right because I'm feeling so ready for new lungs, I knew it was in my best interests to turn them down. I was able to learn that I was the second person to be called that night. Another patient at a hospital in San Francisco was asked if they wanted the lungs first, but that patient turned them down as well.

This second phone call was not like the first phone call at all. I was more prepared and had more knowledge going into the second call to make a decision. The call seemed like such an anticlimactic situation that Tom and I went back to watching TV immediately after I hung up. Part of me was sad in the days after the call, but I know in my heart of hearts that the right lungs are out there for me.

I may not be feeling the greatest, but I am thankful for the health I have left. My oxygen needs are more than they were, my body is more sore and leaving the house is becoming a bigger challenge each day, but I have faith that things will soon be different and better.

I am very lucky that my parents are coming to visit this weekend. We are looking forward to spending time together, even though it might rain for their entire trip (sorry Mom and Dad!)

I would like to end this with asking for prayers on this birthday of mine. I ask for better health so I am able to enjoy today and the time I will spend with my family this weekend. I also ask you to pray for healthy lungs to come my way soon.