2 weeks from transplant

It is hard to image that just two weeks ago Laura went through a life changing experience. Two weeks later we are adjusting to our new lives and we have started a new journey.  

As we entered into the transplant process we were told that you are trading one disease for another. In the case of CF the trade is welcomed compared to the alternative.  The complexities of the new disease especially in the first weeks are tough.  For those who read the blog and have CF or are on the list prepare yourself.  We understood it would be hard but then again we thought life was hard already.  Air tanks, air compressors, wheelchairs, pills, needles and inhalers didn't make the old life that easy.

The first weeks of the journey are harder due to the edema, pain and nausea.  I am sure in ALL of the possible side effects they were each mentioned dozens of times but after the first few paragraphs of grave side effects we ignored them and tried to stay optimistic.  Optimism is what got us this far.  

Each pain causes the other to seem worse or has another side effect and all make sleep near impossible.  The first 60 days are full of new inhaled meds that require you to be alone in a room for hours since they are toxic to anyone healthy. (We'll see how well the iPad works in 60 days.) 

The funny thing about all of this. Is that there is no conversation about breathing. Like the rest of us it just happens.  Of course there are a number of exercises that Laura has to do to get the lungs into shape but none of our conversations are the lack of air.  So even though this part is hard we know the end result will be worth the effort.

As for effort of others we can not thank you all enough for everything that you have done. We appreciate the food and Munchery deliveries and cards.  A friend came over to the new place with bleach and a tooth brush to scrub the old window sills to make sure there was no mold. Who dies that? Amazing! We know that this support is not the norm and that we are blessed to have such a great group of friends that regardless of their location on the planet are making their thoughts and wishes known. 

A number of you in SF have offered to make meals. Thank you, we happily accept.  I am working on responding and creating a calendar.

More to come.  Thanks again for the encouragement it really does help.

Love,

The Zs