Wanting to make a difference...and knowing how to go about doing it, are two vastly different things. When first released from the hospital, I was unable to walk without the aid of a walker, and motivating myself, was difficult enough, without having to think about attempting to help others. But helping others, and giving something back for all the help I had received, was, and is, of tremendous importance to me. I just had no idea of where, or how to start.
Looking back at my time in the hospital, I think I actually started giving something back, by writing a long letter of love and appreciation, to the 14 West transplant unit staff, for all their devotion and hard work, during my rehabilitation process. If it wasn't for the incredible dedication & diligence of the nurses and nurses aides as a unit, I certainly would not be here today, & you would be reading someone else's ramblings, other than mine...Day after day, I was consistently picked up off the floor, both physically and mentally...finding myself laughing one minute, and uncontrollably crying the next. While I couldn't explain the mood swings, I attributed them to the high doses of steroids I was taking, along with all the new medications I found myself on. No matter what my condition or mood, someone from the transplant staff was always there to lend a hand, or just to listen to whatever I had on my mind. Their help and guidance continues to inspire me even today, two years later. How can you thank someone for that? Again, I had no idea, but I decided to start with a letter, and, since then, I have repeatedly sent cards and gift baskets to the staff as a reminder of thanks for all they have done for me. So for John, Naomi, Christina, Karen, Sara, Amy, Diane, Gary, Michael, Dorothy, Lindsay, and the rest, I want to thank you again from the bottom of my heart for all you did for me...It will never, ever, be forgotten...TO BE CONTINUED...
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