It’s been a year since my transplant - and what a wonderful year it’s been.  I really never dreamed I would have the health I enjoy today.  In the final days just before my transplant, I was on 16 liters of oxygen just to do the most basic things.  Today, everything I prayed for is taking place in my life and then some.  I only wish I could express the spiritual changes that take place before, during, and after transplant.  It’s knowledge that can only be gained through experience.  If you are waiting, you must have faith.  

After being released from the hospital (I spent the first month with my daughter) I was determined to find out how far I could go.  Within three months I was doing repairs on a pick-up truck I got a good buy on.  (My Dodge Ram / Hemi got re-possessed while I was sick and out of work.)  As some people I know would say ” that’s OK “.  But I felt like I had a lot of catching up to do.  Sometimes I push a little hard - always have.  

I started fishing again.  Anytime I felt like it.  I’ve been to Lake Lockloosa in Cross Creek, Newmans Lake, Withlacoochee River, St. Johns River, Suwannee River, Wacassa River, Tampa Bay, and all over the Cedar Key area.  Not to mention the numerous creeks between Fowlers Bluff where I live and the Gulf.  It’s been awesome. Enough about my ego! To think I was planning my eulogy not long ago.  

It was the emotions of my children and some loving words from a new friend that I made the decision to pursue a transplant.  I promised myself I would do what ever it takes, after that it would be in Gods hands. I got my transplant so I could LIVE. One of the main reasons was to see my grandchildren grow up. We visit often and we have fun. My daughters are great. They make it happen!! We all get together on a regular basis. I really didn’t think I would make it to Breanna’s graduation (my youngest).  In reality, I was there for the graduation and all the festivities.  What fun we all had! 

After six months I decided it was time to get a part time job - so I did.  Within one week of hunting, I landed a job in the paint and hardware department at Walmart.  I was actually a little worried about passing the mandatory drug test but that ended up not being a problem.  After working there for two months, I found a job I was more suited for at a lumber company.  (The job was ideal but I just got recently got laid off.) 

Well enough out of me . . . for now.  Hunting season is around the corner and I have to finish the tree stand I’m building.  Thank you for your support.  God Bless my Donor and Family.  Live, love, laugh. 

Kent