Today Sara and I made the trip to Madison for our 4.5 month visit. We both had lab work and check-ups and Sara also needed to have an MRI for a study she is taking part in. Sara's appointment was done before mine. She came out with a smile on her face and told me that her creatinine level was 1.1. That is the lowest she can ever remember it being since she has been treated for kidney disease! I was amazed! But what came next was even more incredible. I went in for my appointment and met with the nurse practitioner. (I have graduated from surgeon to NP now -- must mean I am doing fine!). She was reviewing my labs with me and told me that my creatinine was 1.11. I said, "wow, that is what my recipient's was today too". Sara had told me hers was 1.1, but I wasn't sure what her "third digit" was. I couldn't wait to get out of the appointment and ask her. After I was done and all checked out I returned to the waiting room and asked Sara what her exact numbers were. She referenced her results sheet and...you guessed it...it was 1.11!! For a fleeting second I thought maybe the lab had mixed up our blood :-) But, as has so often been the case, I know that God has His hand in the whole process. There is no such thing as coincidence. This was all meant to be. Although a "normal" person has creatinine of under 1.0, the health care providers are very happy with both of us being at this level. I also was able to see Chris, my coordinator, while I was there. She and I hugged and talked about how far we have come together. She has been my go-to person through it all and I am eternally grateful for her patience, answers, and cheerful disposition! Sara and I celebrated with a trip to Chili's and a little shopping at the Dells outlet mall on the way home.
As Christmas quickly approaches I was thinking back on the blessings of this past year. I could not imagine last Christmas what this year would have in store for me. On December 22nd, 2010 Mike and I were at UW having my donor work-up done. I had no idea that within the year Lonnie would have a kidney and Craig, Sara, and Ashlyn(and all of their family and friends) would come into our lives. How blessed I am!
Sara's benefit plans are coming along beautifully. The benefit will be held from noon to 10 p.m. at the Marshfield Fairgrounds Jr. Expo building on Saturday, February 4th. There will be food, beverages, raffles, music and much, much more! There is even a raffle for a one week stay in a beautiful home in Wales! Please mark your calendars and plan to come by! It promises to be a great time!
