Dear Folks,
I would like to express my deepest thanks for the collective courage of the folks on this forum! Words like indomitable, inspirational, exceptional, steadfast, loyal, and awesome come to mind. Your knowledge, fortitude, humor, and humanity all affected me very deeply while I went through the crisis of my AN experience last year, and they continue to provide a vast sense of camaraderie and support as I continue to deal with the AN situation. Thank you all!
Now I am facing another major medical challenge, this one voluntary, and often I think of and draw inspiration from you. On May 30th I am going to donate a kidney to my brother who has been on dialysis for almost two years. We have great doctors at Stanford (of CK fame). I trust them. I believe in what I am doing.
For me, especially during this waiting period before the procedure, it’s those crazy emotions that can be troublesome. They must be dealt with and they sometimes overwhelm; that’s when I particularly think of you. Your bravery, compassion, and humor are making an enormous difference for me. Although still shaken from dealing with the AN stuff, I am determined, despite any fears, to see this surgery through. May I ask you to keep us in your thoughts on May 29th when we check into the hospital and on the 30th when we go for it?
The folks on this forum are a resilient bunch, and I am proud to be amongst you. Thank you, thank you, thank you! You are wonderful!
Best wishes to you all,
Joanne
P.S. Special thanks to Phyllis who is on the Willing-to-Talk list.
