Countdown to May 14 :)

From last week's fundraiser, the Raven Rock Ramble 100k bike ride, to the OR bright and early on Tuesday morning, the month of May is off to a hell of a start! Though we were not able to ride in the RRR (our docs forbid riding even 10 miles in a "victory lap"), being out there with countless of organ recipients and donors who are competitive athletes was incredibly uplifting and inspirational! Now we have just 24 hours to go until the transplant, and we're laying low, taking care of each other, resting up and visualizing a healthy and successful "bean swap."

After the surgery was postponed in March, it's been challenging as the date grows closer this time to proceed with cautious optimism. We are aware that at the very last minute, something could change, and the surgery is not garuanteed to happen on Tuesday morning. That, and the fact that the outcome of the surgery remains unknown, are the main concerns that we face as we head into the transplant process. We are not afraid of the surgery, or lying on the operating table, being in the hospital, or recovering. It is a tremendous blessing to have this opportunity and we are grateful for every moment, every chance, every breath and every smile that bring meaning into our lives.

In the next few days, updates will be posted on the blog, as well as on FB and email by our friends and family, particularly by Patrick's girlfriend, Rhiannon, and our FB friends. Mom and Dad will need lots of love and support, so please send it to them and keep us in your prayers!

love and light to you and yours~
in peace,
Kate

HUGE THANK YOU to everyone who donated and supported our involvement in the Raven Rock Ramble. The event raised approx. $20,000 for direct patient services at the UNC Kidney Center. For Patrick and I, the opportunity to meet other recipients and donors at the bike ride was invaluable. These new friends are friends for life!