The Road

I received a call from my good friend who has a sister with kidney failure and in need of a heart transplant. The doctors are moving forward with her testing so that she can donate her kidney to her sister. They wanted to wait initially because of the heart problems, but she needs the kidney transplant soon. My friend is brave. I am excited for her. The experience is something you never forget. From the beginning to the end. I anticipated that day and was eager that morning to get it over with so my husband could be healthy again. I am sure that she has that same feeling. It is a difficult task to watch your loved one ill. As my friend continues on this journey, I wish them much love, peace, health and happiness. I know that it will all work out and God will bless them.

Just thinking

With the Susan Komen Cancer Walk approaching I'm thinking about all those suffering with cancer, lost someone with cancer or battling with cancer themselves. My great-aunt died of breast cancer when I was just a child. My uncle who raised me as his own died of cancer when my son was just 3 months old. The pain of it all is still there -- some days better than others. For those that are dealing with anything I mentioned above, there is a healing for the soul. Each day is filled with surprises, disappointments and other things we all probably would care to forget. I would like to remind you (whoever is reading) that despite that, let love, peace, generosity and serving others take over each day. We are put on this earth to serve others whether you want to do it or not. It is not all about us. I know...I know...it's not a perfect world, but YOU can have a perfect world for yourself and build around yourself. Life is something else so why not enjoy the time you have. Pray for others dealing with cancer, kidney disease, liver disease, heart problems, etc. Healing is on the way!

NKF (National Kidney Foundation)

My husband, son and I participated in the Kidney Walk on Saturday, June 6th at St. Louis University. We were overwhelmed by the numbers that came out to support. I set a goal of $300 for donations and exceeded that. It was very exciting. We are still doing well and just grateful for each day. I must admit that I was a little disheartened last week. I noticed all the promoting for the Susan Komen Walk and very little talk of the Kidney Walk. This is not to say that cancer is not an increasing problem in our community, but I felt like this cause was being overlooked. I am much better this week after participating. I am grateful for all those that donated, walked and prayed for the cause. Also, God doesn't always bless us in numbers and I understand that. The walk was such a rewarding experience and allowed us to see our blessing. There were those that are on dialysis waiting for a kidney, waiting to be healthy and it made us see it in a somewhat difficult way. Although my husband is feeling good now, we remember the impact the illness has had on our family and we will continue to support the cause, pray for those waiting and be an inspiration to others. Why don't you join us next year?