Journal entry by Arnie Reed —
Three weeks and two days ago Tuesday Lydia got her new liver at Vanderbilt. Since then she has astounded the doctors with the pace of her remarkable recovery. Her insurance representative said that people her age who receive liver transplants typically stay in the hospital 6 to 7 weeks. Lydia stayed only 4 days.
Getting a new liver has been a life-changing experience for Lydia. The first thing she noticed was an immediate lifting of the "brain fog" that was caused by her old liver not clearing out ammonia, which crosses the blood-brain barrier and inhibits the brain's ability to function normally. In addition, her motor skills and strength have improved as well. She's feeling better than she has felt in years.
Lydia and I both appreciate all of the love, prayers and good thoughts you have sent her way. We strongly encourage you to sign up to be an organ donor, because many people like Lydia will die every day for lack of an organ transplant. It was only through the generosity of a person who died at age 27 that Lydia received this gift of life.
Here is the link to sign up to be a donor:
https://www.organdonor.gov/register.html
A $25 donation to CaringBridge powers a site like Lydia's for two weeks. Will you make a gift to help ensure that this site stays online for them and for you?