Late last night we received word that Tom’s insurance had pre-approval of the double lung transplant. This news was overdue and a huge relief. Today around noon the transplant team placed Tom on “The List”. The transplant list is difficult to get on and just as difficult to stay on. Due to Tom’s condition and need he has been placed as #3 on the list! This news means that his wait on the list may be short.
#3 has a whole new meaning now, as this was my favorite number. Now, it means the severity of a deadly condition and someone’s chance at a longer life. Organ donation is such a gift. Donation offers hope to those in need and new life to the sick and weary. I hope to now see both sides of donation. My birth father gave the ultimate donation of his organs, following his death. I remember the call of donation, and to get his health history as the family gathered to mourn his sudden loss. Although that thought was hard, it was nice to feel hope that he had helped others in need. Now not only do I pray for Tom, my Dad who has been there for us 22 years, to receive this gift of hope, but that the family soon to experience loss, just as I did to know that God is with them. I pray that healthy lungs can change his life, and the donor family knows how much we appreciate their strength during their difficult time. I hope that through this journey others will also decide to become organ donors.
We also would like the family to know that there is likely to be a false alarm of lung transplant. Prayers appreciated as we are now officially on the roller coaster of emotions with each call and possibility of donation. Thank you all for your love and support during this difficult journey.
Ashley Bolser