David’s Story

Site created on May 28, 2016

Welcome to our CaringBridge website. We are using it to keep family and friends updated in one place. We appreciate your support and words of hope and encouragement. Thank you for visiting.

Newest Update

Journal entry by Kathie Shafer

I just don’t know how we got here.  Today marks 18 months since Dave got his gift of life!!!  I remember when Dave first went on the list, I started counting days until he got a transplant.  Now we focus on the months post transplant.  

I know it has been a bit since I gave any update and honestly it is because things are going so well - minus a fall at a fire call last week that sent Dave to the ER with and injured leg and shoulder.  Good news was it happened doing something he loves - serving the company.  While no broken bones, but there is serious bruising that needs to heal that has him less active.

A few weeks ago we attended an event at UPMC Harrisburg for a Gift of Life flag raising.  Last year Dave and Steve spoke at this event.  This year a gentleman that Dave knew from dialysis spoke - he is still waiting for a kidney, but has started to get calls!  I got to meet people that have been living donors, representatives of families that made the decision to give in the sadness of death and persons that got a kidney!  Very emotional times, but times filled with hope and joy.  The 4th floor (post transplant floor)  then had a reception and we got to see some of Dave’s nurses and care team.  We also found out that day the a wonderful woman who sat next to Dave in dialysis got her gift of life the night before!!  She and Dave chat on a regular basis - it is great to know the Dave can be a support to someone that is recovering and starting a new journey.

Next week we have his 18 month transplant team visit.  We don’t expect anything unusual, his monthly blood work is good and he feels good.  

We are so grateful - last May we’re finally able to travel again and we have, over 15,000 miles.  Our most recent trip was to Charleston SC, with a quick trip to Florida for a memorial service for my aunt.  Charleston was time with Dave’s brother and sister-in-law, relaxation, good food and time exploring.  While we have no major travel plans this summer - one of us needs to work - we are looking at future travels.

Thank you all for your ongoing prayers and support.

Kathie & Dave


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