Lifesavers for Latasha

It’s hard to believe it’s been eight months since my transplant.

I had another bronchoscopy towards the end of February. There are still no signs of organ rejection, which is great news. The doctors restarted some of the medications they stopped when I was vomiting so much. So, I am trying to adjust to those medications again.

I’ve had a few episodes of nausea and vomiting over the last couple of weeks. I don’t know if it’s from the medications or something I’ve eaten. I’ve just been telling myself this is going to be part of my new normal, and I’m trying to adjust to it as best as I can.

I am still healing on my right side. It’s surprising to me how long it is taking to heal. Even though I was told it could take up to a year to heal, I didn’t think it would take that long. There are some days when the pain and discomfort are worse than normal, especially if I’ve had multiple days of vomiting. Again, it’s something I’ve had to adjust to, while waiting a few more months to heal.

Chris and I are looking forward to warmer weather, so we can go for walks. We’ve been talking about going on a trip somewhere, even if it’s just for a weekend. It’s nice to think about being able to go somewhere.

Just a few short months ago, I was literally afraid to have Jack and Gunner, and even sometimes Binx, around me. Chris was having to keep them crated and come home at lunch to let them out to the bathroom. Now, I am back to being comfortable around them, so they’re able to stay out with me during the day.

I have my next follow-up appointments and another bronchoscopy in June. They said this will be the last required bronchoscopy, and I’ll only need one after June if I start having issues. I’m hoping my follow-up appointments and lab appointments after June will also be spread farther apart. I’m still doing blood work every two weeks; it’ll be nice to not have to do labs so often.

I wrote the family of my organ donor and gave the letter to my transplant coordinator, so it could be given to the family. Everything I read about the letter said to keep things general and vague. I don’t know if I’ll receive a response, but at least the family will know how grateful we are to their loved one for the organs and for saving my life.

A few months ago, I was mentally and physically in a really bad place. I could not have made it this far without Chris, my family, and all the encouragement and kind words from you all. During those dark times after the transplant, I could not see any light in the future for me. So, for me to be here today, feeling so much better than I did during those months, I am truly beyond thankful. This transplant journey truly has been the most difficult thing I have ever done. I could not have made it without the support of each of you. Thank you so much! Until the next update, I hope you enjoy the upcoming spring!