Time Flies!

I think I'm due for a bit of an update. The last few weeks have gone well in terms of my health. I had a run-in with CMV, but after a couple of weeks of oral anti-virals, it's gone again. Otherwise, I'm keeping up with my workouts, meds, sleep, and I'm even eating better. I have probably eaten more vegetable this year than I did all of last year!

I was so relieved to say goodbye to 2010. What a year. It was full of challenges, but great rewards too. I'm glad it's behind me and I can get back to the business of living.

I have been enjoying time with my friends and family. I have been out and about doing errands, going grocery shopping, and getting things done around the house. I made myself a giant TO DO list and I have been working hard to cross things off. After two years of being sick and letting things slide (or more accurately, these things fall off the priority list) it feels good to start catching up. I found a great book on uncluttering and it's been motivating me to organize and get rid of things. Yay! I have also officially read my first novel in over a year. It's an awesome feeling to get back to the things I enjoy!

I still struggle with joining the real world. Some days I think I fit in and can keep up, but other days are a challenge. I went back to my office for a social visit. It was as though nothing has changed, but everything has changed. It was a little strange, but I was happy to see everyone. They have been so supportive through the last couple of years.

I feel trapped in between these two worlds sometimes- I have had my transplant, but I have three good friends (all CFers) still waiting. It's a constant reminder of how far I've come. One of my friends has had two dry runs already, which is unusual for our hospital. I can't imagine how tough that is mentally and emotionally. I never thought I'd have a dry run, and luckily I didn't. Another friend is hoping for a regular ol' transplant but doing the work for a living donor transplant- where one lobe will come from one family member/friend and the second lobe from another. She's a lot like I was- on IVs like clockwork! And my third friend has been living in the hospital for six months (exactly today). She will stay there until she gets her transplant. Things have been very challenging and complicated for her. I want all of their transplants happen soon. I want them to be on the other side with me.

I passed my six month anniversary a couple of weeks ago. It was a normal day, but it's hard to believe where I was six months before. It really is unbelievable. I will be going for my next clinic on Tuesday and I am expecting another bronch to dilate my airway again. That tissue has definitely grown back. I can hear it when I breathe and feel the resistance when I exercise. Otherwise, I expect a six-month walk test and the usual PFTs, xray and port access. My appointments are about a month apart at this point, which is fine by me.

I am making all sorts of goals and plans for the future. I'm excited about the possibilities and what I can accomplish. I am so grateful and happy that my husband can have his life back too. I can't wait to see what this year brings us!