So, I've noticed that a lot of people start blogging when they are about to go through transplant to keep a record of what is going on and also to keep friends and family updated. I figured I'd join them.
I guess a little history about me, I'm 22 and live in South Carolina. I completed college up until my last semester and had to withdraw for lovely health reasons. My major was Chemistry and Biology with a concentration in Forensic Science (Obviously, I love torture). I now live back at home with my parents, which takes some getting used to after being on my own for 4 years, but they are great. I have three older brothers. One who passed away when he was 15 in 2002. We were the only 2 with CF. My two older brothers are very successful, college graduates and one is a cop, the other is married and in the Navy.
Before I got so sick I loved being up at school, living in my apartment with my boyfriend and our three babies (2 little pup pups and a kitty). He is still up at school, and has one more year to go. It's really hard being away from him after we spent so much time together. We will have been together 3 years this month! He is very supportive and tries his best not to worry, but you know how that is. I honestly couldn't ask for anyone better.
I currently recieve treatment for my CF at MUSC in Charleston, but they do not currently have a transplant program. That is why I am going to Duke for my evaluation. MUSC is actually in the process of getting their program certified, and there were talks of me being the first transplantee there, but time is starting to become an issue for me.
I recieved care at UNC Chapel Hill up until I was about 14, when my brother died. LONG STORY, details later. So, going back to NC won't be that big of a deal, just going to Dukie might be kind of weird for me. I can't help it, I'll always be a Tarheel.
Other than having a million questions and being slightly terrified but also extremely excited about transplant, I think I'm handling it pretty well. I don't know if anyone is going to read this blog, and that's ok. I guess I'm doing it more for myself and my own sanity more than anything. But, your advice and comments are certainly welcome and I appreciate any thing you might have to offer.
I guess this will do for a first blog, I will have to write more when I'm not trying to be so quiet because everyone is my house in asleep. Why I waited until 12:22 AM to start this, I don't know. Hmmm gotta love that prednisone :)
I'll be the first to comment:)
ReplyDeleteI have never seen such valor and determination. Grace, you have more will that anyone I have ever seen or known. I can't believe how far you've come to learn to deal with CF and how much you've had to manage. I must say, like your mother, your an incredibly strong woman and it looks like nothing will be able to stop you. I admire your perseverance. I have never known a family like yours, and for that I am glad. Meeting your family at the Church 2 weeks ago was a great experience. And you must know that should you ever need anything, you can get in touch with me. From the Hudson family, you all have our Prayers. :)
-Kermit Trevor Hudson