A MESSAGE FROM ERIKA:

Halleluiah!! I am now three and a half weeks post-transplant and feeling on Cloud 9. Although there have been a few bumps in the road, the work that my dad’s kidney has done and will continue to do is a miracle to me. I went from living off a machine three days a week and having to deal with the side effects of dialysis to taking regular walks and being excited to get out of bed. It’s baffling to me the differences I have noticed in my body with a healthy kidney. My skin has cleared up (I used to consistently live with rashes), my mental clarity has returned (from not being tired and ill all the time), the physical stamina I have isn’t even comparable to even my last three years. The doctors and nurses tell me that if I think I feel good now, wait until three months post-transplant!

I am truly blessed to have such a loving family. My parents and brother have been there for me through it all providing the love and support to allow me to heal. My gratitude stretches far beyond my direct family as I have received so much love from so many people in so many ways. Words cannot express how thankful I am that God has placed so many good souls on this earth. You will never be forgotten.

As I continue my healing journey I encourage everyone, everyday to give gratitude to the many blessings you have in life as there are those out there who may not be able to experience what you have. Compassion is key, as I have experienced firsthand. It is now time for me to go out and experience life to its fullest!