Monday November 30

Today was pretty uneventful but a good day.  I had a lazy morning.  I slept ok last night I just didn't have motivation right away.  

Colin went in to work around noon so I went to Advanced Auto.  My engine light came on in my car and I wanted to read the code to make sure it wasn't anything major.  They won't read the code for you.  You have to hook the machine up yourself and research the code.  Luckily they don't charge you to do it.  There was someone else using the gadget when I got there so I asked her if I could watch her do it.  Turns out...she was a mechanic.  After she was done on the car she was working on, she was kind enough to hook it up to my car, read the code and tell me what it was.   It's an emissions evap leak.  She thinks it's the gas cap.  Nothing major so that's a good thing.  I thanked her and offered her money but she wouldn't take it.  Everyone we have encountered here has been so nice.  

I left there and went to Best Buy to talk to them about getting hands free talking in my car.  I'm debating on getting it for Christmas since I am traveling a lot more now.  I think I'm going to ask my mom and dad to get it for me for Christmas.  I really can't think of anything that I want.  After that I went to Macy's to see if there's anything I could find that I may want.   Cyndee has been asking me for a list and I just don't need or want anything.  I don't know what to tell her.  I walked aimlessly around Macy's.   I couldn't find anything so I left.   

I went home and put on my fluids and waited for Colin to get home.  He was home around 4.  He heated up leftovers for dinner and we watched tv.   I put my tpn on early because we have to get up early tomorrow for my appointment.  I'm laying down now and hoping to fall asleep soon.  

That was pretty much it for me for the day.  I will post more tomorrow after my appointment.  Pray for good news!!  Until then....have a good night.

Sunday November 29

Was up at 2 and 4 this morning but was able to fall back asleep.  I was up at 6.  I stayed in bed and watched Law and Order for a while.  When my tpn was done I got up and showered.  

We left the house to check to see if the highway was open.  They have been closing it on the weekends for road work.  It was open and we ended up driving to the strip district.  Colin stopped and got breakfast at DeLucas.  It's a small restaurant that usually has really long lines and has been featured on Man Vs. Food with Adam Richmond.  It's a really busy place.  We left after that and headed home.  I went to Michaels after we got home and returned picture frames I had bought last week because I found them for half the price at target.   I went to target and bought the other ones.

I got home and put on my fluids.  After my fluids Colin wanted to check out a local gun shop.  We took a little ride and looked around.  It was a pretty cool place.  We got home and I made ravioli and garlic bread for dinner.  After Colin had dinner we played Monopoly.  I of course lost because I wouldn't trade any of my properties.  He had hotels 1/4 of the way around the board.  

I had nothing.  It was fun to play though.  It's close to 6:30.  I have a cramping feeling in my stomach.  I'm not sure what's going on with it but it hurts.  I'm laying on the couch with my heated blanket and my overnight bag on so I don't have to keep getting up to empty.  Colin is watching football and I'm typing this.  I hope you have a good night.  I will update tomorrow.  Until then...

Saturday November 28

Today was a cold rainy day.  

We got up and Colin took me to find where my therapy appointment is this week.  I have an appointment on Thursday.  It was pretty easy to get to.  I shouldn't have any issues.  We drove around for a little bit just exploring.  

We got back home and I decided to organize my osteomy supplies.  I had a huge box of stuff that needed put away so I took about an hour to tackle the project.  It sent me into cleaning/organizing mode so I cleaned and organized the closet.   Then I decided to organize the file cabinet.  That took a couple of hours because I have so much.   I got it all done though and had a fairly productive day.  

I put my fluids on and watched tv.  Colin and I didn't end up going to a movie on Thanksgiving so we went to see Creed this evening.   If you like the Rocky movies it was definitely worth seeing.  We just got home.  I put my tpn on and am laying down.  Hopefully I'll get some sleep tonight.  

I was feeling pretty good today so maybe I burned off enough energy to sleep through the night.  I hope you have a good night.  Sweet dreams!

Sleepless

It's 1:30 and I'm wide awake.  This not sleeping is really getting to me.  I really hope they change something at my next appointment.  I'm laying on the couch watching impractical jokers so I don't wake Colin up with the tv in the bedroom.  I'm going to try and drink some of my sleepy time tea and hopefully fall asleep at some point.  

It's going to be a long night.....  

Friday November 27

Had an ok night last night.  Fell asleep around 10.  Woke up at 2 but was able to go back to sleep.  My battery pack on the ton died around 4 and woke me up.  I went back to sleep.  Then the back up battery on my ton died around 5.  After that I was up.  I went to the couch to watch tv so I didn't wake Colin up.  

Around 7:30 I got up and took off my tpn, got showered and dressed.  Then we went for a bike ride.  We rode to Panera for coffee and then rode back home.  

We got home and watched tv for a little bit.  Colin left to go to work and I started looking through all the bills and started organizing.  There was a bunch of stuff I didn't want to throw away so I went online and priced out paper shredders.  I found one at Best Buy for $15.  I decided to take my chances and go to Best Buy across the street.  To my surprise I parked in the third space from the door.  I went in and asked where they were.  The guy took me right to them.  I grabbed it and thanked him.  I started walking toward the line and he stopped me and said he could check me out there.  I was in and out in under 10 minutes.  It was pretty awesome.  

I got home and started the task of organizing the file cabinet.  It's going to be a project.  I put on my fluids and worked on organizing for a little bit.  I got out food for dinner and made dinner for when Colin got home so he didn't have to eat leftovers again.  

He got home and we watched Impractical Jokers for a little bit.  I put on my tpn and am laying in bed watching Four Christmases.   All in all I'm feeling pretty good today.  I had a little more energy and I'm not falling back into the fog I was in.  Tomorrow is supposed to rain all day.  Not sure what we are going to do.  I'm sure we will figure something out.  

I hope you have a good night.  I will update tomorrow.  Until then.....

Thursday November 26

For my standard blog post of the day.   My night was ok.  I went to bed around 9.   Was asleep by 9:30.  Woke up around 2.   I got up and read a couple chapters in my book.  I still wasn't tired so I went to the couch so I wouldn't wake Colin up.  I fell back asleep around 4 and was up at 6.  

I am done with the antibiotics as of yesterday so that's three hours a day that I'm not hooked up to an iv.  I got showered and dressed and waited for Colin to do the same.  We needed some poultry seasoning for the turkey so we walked across the street.  We stopped at McDonalds for coffee and hot chocolate.  Then we walked to the grocery store.  It was a beautiful day today.  Not too cold and sunny.  We took our time walking home.  

Once home we got the turkey ready to put in the oven.  We put the turkey in around noon.  It was done around 2:30.  It definitely wasn't a Carlock Thanksgiving but it was the two of us and we made due.  Our first and hopefully last Thanksgiving in Pittsburgh.  Hopefully next year we will be home and healthy!  

Right now we are watching naked and afraid.  We are going to go to the movies this evening to see Creed.  We are starting our own tradition.  So that's the plan for today.  I'm actually feeling pretty good today.  I don't seem to be in a fog which is nice.  Hopefully it was from the antibiotics and it doesn't happen anymore.  

I hope you all had a wonderful day!!  Happy Thanksgiving!  Sweet dreams until tomorrow!

Happy Thanksgiving!!! Thankful......

Happy Thanksgiving!!!!   I have a lot to be thankful for this year.   I am thankful to be alive.   I can't believe it's close to a year since my medical disaster.   

I am thankful for my husband Colin.  Without his support and unconditional love I couldn't have gotten through this past year.   He has sacrificed so much to take care of me and has never complained or made me feel guilty about it.  He keeps me positive and looking towards the future.  He is an amazing man and I don't know what I would do without him.  Thank you Colin for being my rock.  I love you!

I am thankful for my parents.   They are always there for me no matter what.  They are always supportive and encouraging.  I don't know what I would do without them.  They love me even on my worst day and when I'm miserable.   I know my parents would fight for me until their death and for this I am forever grateful to them.  Thank you Mom and Dad for everything you do.  I love you!

I am thankful for my family.  Amber, Bobby, Carter, Caden, Shawn, Courtney and Dana.   You have all made the past year more bearable.   Between all of the visits to the hospital to the daily check-ins to make sure I'm ok.  You have shown me genuine love.  I know that if I need anything at all they are only a phone call away.  Thank you for always being there.  I couldn't do this without you.  I love you!

I am thankful for my in-laws.   Between Cyndee taking care of the dogs while we are in Pittsburgh and allowing us to live with her until we moved; to David driving the moving truck to Pittsburgh in the middle of the night; to Brooke making sure Colin has food and is taking care of himself; to the kids sending cards and artwork; to Charity making weekly calls to check in on me.   You have been there for us and have never questioned or complained.  Thank you for everything.  I love you!

I am thankful for my friends.   I'm not going to name you all because there are too many people to name.  I want to thank you for the unconditional love, support and prayers through this difficult time.   You have done so much for us.  The benefit/gala was a huge success as well as the golf tournament.  Without you....this never would have happened and we wouldn't have raised the money we did for my transplant.   What you did with these events was mind blowing!  Thank you for the constant check-ins, cards and visits.   You have made the last year more bearable.   I am thankful and blessed to have each and every one of you in my life!  I love you!

I am thankful for my doctors.   Starting with Dr. Chory and Dr. Johnston....they saved my life.  Without their quick actions I would not be here today.  Dr. Harborson and his colleagues....they have taken care of me over the past year and have gotten me in with the doctors here in Pittsburgh.  Dr. Cruz, Mary Roberts and the team here in Pittsburgh - I am forever thankful.   This team of doctors has kept me "healthy" and out of the hospital for a record of 7 weeks now.   Previously....(since December) the longest stretch I'd been out of the hospital was 4 days.  I am forever grateful to each and every one of my doctors.

I am thankful for my nurses.   Each and every one of you has shown me compassion, empathy and care.  These nurses are barely recognized for what they do and they are the ones who work tirelessly to make sure every need is met.  You not only took care of me, you have become my friends.  I thank you for being there for me and I will never forget you. 

I am not sure what the future holds but I do know one thing..... I am touched by the people in my life and I will never forget what you have done for me.  I am truly blessed.  

Wednesday November 25

Happy Thanksgiving Eve!!!   I had a good night last night.   I actually got some sleep.  I was so exhausted.   I fell asleep by 9:30.  Woke up to go to the bathroom around 1 but was able to fall back asleep.  My battery died on my tpn pump around 3 and woke me up.  I had to get up and change it but fell back asleep.   Got up at 5 to go to the bathroom again (the tpn is all fluid so I pee a lot), but I was able to fall back asleep.   Then I was up a little after 7.   Sleeping felt great!!!  I was well rested this morning.

I got up and showered.  Put on my iv antibiotics and chilled out watching Kitchen Nightmares while they ran.   After they were done I did some laundry and cooked the apple pie I got Colin for Thanksgiving dinner.   No.....not homemade....it's a Mrs. Smith's.  Colin went in to work and while he was there I decorated my $13.00 - 3 ft Christmas tree.  I wanted something here in Pittsburgh to make it feel like the holidays but I didn't want to spend a lot of money or take up a lot of space.  So here it is.  My little Charlie Brown tree.   

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While decorating the tree I watched the last episodes of One Tree Hill.   I finally finished and watched the series finale today.   I would recommend the series for light, easy, soap opera-like television.   Thank you Brynn for recommending it.  

Colin got home around 2:30.  We watched a couple episodes of Chopped.  I still had my fluids running when he got home.  After my fluids were done we put in a movie.   We watched Vacation.  It's supposed to be the new National Lampoons.   It was ok.   There were some funny parts but they were pretty much what you see in the previews.  We are watching No Escape now with Owen Wilson.   So far it's pretty good.   I'll let you know how the rest of it goes.  

So....how am I feeling?   I've been in a fog the last two days.  I don't know why.  I thought it was from not sleeping but I feel the same way today.   It could be from the antibiotics.  It's hard to say.   It's like I'm in a dream and everything going on around me is fake.   It's really weird.   Hopefully tomorrow is better.   I guess we will see.  Have a good night.  I will post more tomorrow.   

Tuesday November 24

Last night was awful.  I didn't fall asleep until after 11 and I've been up since 2am.   I'm so exhausted.  

I put on my iv antibiotics at 5 this morning so we could leave the house by 6 to head over to the hospital for my clinic appointment.  My appointment went well.  My labs were all good.  They are waiting on the psychologist to release me (she's on vacation this week for the holidays so they have to talk to her next week). Once she releases me they will meet with a panel of doctors to officially list me and make me active.  

I have my first therapy appointment next week to prepare me for the transplant.  I am excited to get things moving so I can have my life back.   I can only imagine what it will be like to eat a meal again and enjoy tasting food.   I want to eat a salad with veggies and dressing.   I'm craving the healthy foods.  I guess that's because those are the things that I absolutely have to stay away from.   My cravings are very odd.

At this point, all I can ask is that you pray for me.  Pray that I become active on the transplant list and pray that I receive an organ quickly.  Pray for a full recovery and that everything goes as planned.  I beleive in the power of prayer because that is how we have gotten through the last year.  

I thank you for your thoughts and prayers and hope you know that I appreciate all of the support.  

I am heading to bed soon.  I'm exhausted from not sleeping last night.   I will post more tomorrow.  Have a good night!

Monday November 23

Good news.....I slept last night!!!!   I got up 4 times to go to the bathroom.  All the tpn and fluids run right through me.  I fell asleep around 9 and was up at 6.  

I got up and showered.  Put on my antibiotics and watched tv.  After I was done Colin and I ran to Lowes to get something to fix our couch.  We were able to spend $13.00 and fixed it.  

We came back to the apartment and made a grocery list.  Colin stayed home and I ran to the store.  I'm beginning to hate the grocery store.   I feel like I have a list and know what I'm going to spend and I end up spending twice that and I don't even eat the food.  It's ridiculous.   

I rented a movie Digging for Fire.  Not recommended. It took forever to get anywhere and it just ended....it made no sense.   

I put on my fluids and did some laundry.  Pretty boring day.  I've been sitting on the couch watching One Tree Hill since 3:00.  It's 7:30.  I'll watch a couple more episodes and then go to bed.  I have my appointment at clinic tomorrow at 7 am.  Pray that everything goes well.   I will update you tomorrow and let you know how I make out.   Have a good night!  Sweet dreams!

Sunday November 22

Last night was awful.   I fell asleep on the couch around 10.  I got up and went in to bed around 11.  I woke up at 2 and never went back to sleep.  I had a meltdown at 6am.  I'm so exhausted.  I really just need some sleep.

I finished my tpn around 8.  Got showered and dressed.  Ran my antibiotic for an hour.   Then we left to head to The Strip District to do some walking and check out the market.  We got all turned around because they closed the highway for construction and we came across the incline.  We stopped and checked it out.  We decided to go for a ride.  It was kind of scary for me at first because the thing looks old and rickety and I'm not a huge fan of heights.  I got better once we got to the top.  The observation lookout was beautiful.  You could see the skyline where the three rivers meet.  

This is us on the way down from the top.  

We left the incline and found The Strip District.  We walked around and browsed a little.  Didn't buy anything or really do anything except walk.  It was freezing today and there were snow flurries.  After about an hour and a half we headed home.  Once we got home I put on my fluids.  Colin watched football and I was updating my address book on the computer.  I like to keep it updated in case I need to send cards or notes etc.  

My stomach started spasming pretty bad so I've been laying on the couch.  I put on my iv antibiotics and the spasms are worse.  Right now I'm stuck watching Zombieland (not my choice).  I'm getting ready to put on my tpn and hopefully get some sleep.  Fingers crossed!  

Have a good night.   I will post tomorrow.  Sweet dreams!

Saturday November 21

I slept a little better last night.   I went in to lay down around 8:30.   I was asleep by 9:30.   Woke up around midnight and turned the tv back on.   I watched the movie Stepmom.   I fell back asleep around 2.   Was up at 4 because the battery on my tpn pump went dead.   Fell back asleep after I changed the battery and then I was up at 6.   A little better than the previous couple nights.

I got up and showered.   Ran my morning antibiotic.   Colin and I ran a couple of errands.   I confirmed all the incorrect address info with the post office.   They said everything is fixed and we should start getting mail again next week.   Fingers crossed!!  

We came home and I put on my fluids.   We watched The Blind Side.   I love that movie.   Then we watched Grown Ups 2.   Not a very exciting day.   Colin had dinner and now we are laying on the couch watching Alaskan Bush People.   I have on my antibiotics.   I'll do them for the next hour and then I'll have to get my tpn ready.

Not too exciting of a day.   Pretty boring.   My stomach has been bothering me the past couple of days.   I have been getting these horrible spasms.   I am pretty sure it's the antibiotics.   I have nothing in my system or my stomach and it's hurting my guts.  They called yesterday and extended the days on the antibiotics.   Originally they were going to be done on Monday.   They extended them to Wednesday now so I have a couple more days than originally planned.

The good news is I'm feeling better as far as my throat and sinuses are concerned so the meds are at least working.  

I'm going to finish getting all my nightly meds done and get my tpn on by 8 and hopefully get some sleep tonight.   I hope you have a good night.   Sweet dreams!   Until tomorrow....

Friday November 20

Woke up this morning around 6.  I was up and down most of the night.   I had a restless sleep.  I stayed in bed until about 7.  Got up, showered and changed my osteomy bag.   

I laid on the couch and put on my iv antibiotics.  It took a little over an hour.   Then I ran to the post office.   They keep screwing up our mail.   It has been a disaster.   We have been getting Cyndee's Mail here but not ours.   Then a bunch was getting returned to senders so we haven't been getting anything.  It's really frustrating and I don't understand why they can't get it right.   I spoke to a very nice man at the post office and after a half hour of waiting he assured me it was fixed and he said to call tomorrow around 10 to verify that they were able to fix it.  Fingers crossed!!

I had to run to Target to pick up my medicine.  Then I ran to the UPS store so I could send Cyndee all her mail that we got here.   It cost me $14.00 to ship her mail ups to make sure she got it.  Such a joke.

After that I came home and put my fluids on.  My stomach has been spasming from the antibiotics and it really hurts.  I just chilled out the rest of the afternoon/evening.  I'm currently laying on the couch with my iv antibiotics and am getting my tpn ready to put on.  Hopefully I'll get some sleep tonight.  Sweet dreams!!   Until tomorrow.  

Thursday November 19

My day was a pretty lazy day today.  I woke up and put on my antibiotics for an hour.  I showered and watched a little tv.  

I went to Target to get my new prescription.  I came back to the apartment and cleaned.   I put dinner in the crock pot for Colin.  I made chicken and cheesy rice.   It looked and smelled delicious!  I also made chicken salad and fiesta Mexican chicken soup.  I'm going to try and be a good wife and have dinner ready for him :)

After cooking and cleaning I just wasn't feeling well.   I put on my fluids and bummed around until Colin got home.  I didn't do much the rest of the evening.  

I did finally get a call from Dr. DiMartini (the transplant psychologist).   She gave me the name of a therapist she wants me to see.  I called and was told she only works with children.   I have a list to go down tomorrow and hopefully I can find someone on the list taking new patients to get the ball rolling on this.   It's the last hurdle I have in order to be officially listed.

I'm laying on the couch now doing my antibiotics.  Then I have to get my tpn ready and hooked up.  I'm exhausted.  Hopefully I will get some sleep tonight.  My stomach has been hurting from the antibiotics and I'm kind of in a fog.   That could just be from not sleeping well again.   Who knows.   Wishing for sweet dreams and some sleep.   Have a good night.   Until tomorrow.....

Wednesday November 18

Today was a lazy day.   We woke up.  I put on my antibiotics.   We ran a couple of errands.   Got home and the maintenance guy came to install the ceiling fan Mom and Dad bought us.   (Thanks Mom & Dad!). 

I put on my fluids and we watched Paper Towns.   It was an ok movie.   Nothing too terribly special about it.  I am going to end up being a movie critic!  I feel like all I do is watch movies.

I made a grocery list and went to the grocery store.  I feel bad because I haven't been making dinner and Colin has to fend for himself.  He doesn't complain about it but I would rather make him dinner and he can eat leftovers for lunch.

My stomach hurts from the antibiotics.  I think it's because I don't have food in my stomach and it's irritating it.  

In the evening I ran both antibiotics, put on my tpn and went to bed.   Nothing too exciting since I'm not feeling well.   I had another sleepless night last night.   I was up at 2am.   I got up and watched tv in the living room so I wouldn't wake Colin up.  I went back to bed around 6 but was up again by 7.  Today is a new day.   I woke up not feeling well so I'm not sure what my day will be like.   I will post later.   Have a good day!!

Tuesday November 17

My appointment at clinic went really well.   My labs are all looking good.   Dr. Cruz is extremely happy with my progress.   He is going to speak to Dr. DiMartini (the psych doc) about listing me and clearance.   Pray for them to make me active on the list. 

I have a cold and the thrush is down into my throat so they put me on iv antibiotics.  I am on Cipro twice a day and Diflucan once a day for a week.  Hopefully it clears everything up and I'll be good as new next week.  

After my appointment we came home and watched Jurassic World.   I wasn't feeling well and fell asleep on the couch for about an hour.   That's the first time I've napped in a long time.   It felt good to get a little rest.  

The medical company didn't deliver my iv meds until 7:30 so we had to run both of the antibiotics before I could put on my tpn.   It took about an hour for the antibiotics to run.  I put on my tpn and went to bed.   I slept pretty well last night.   Hopefully the change in my meds will make a huge difference.   That's all I really have for now.  I will try and post later today.  Not sure what today holds for me.   Have a good day!

Monday November 16

Colin and I left early in the morning to head back to Pittsburgh.    We made it home safe and sound and in good time.

When we got home I was feeling really dehydrated so I put on extra fluids and we hung out at the house and watched San Andreas.    I ran to the grocery store to grab some drinks because we didn't have anything in the house.

We had an early night because I have my clinic appointment early Tuesday morning.   I put my tpn on around 6 and went to lay down in bed around 8.  

I'll post about my appointment later.   Have a good day.

Sunday November 15

Woke up this morning and went to Amber's to watch the boys play in the leaves.  

They were hard at work and have a lot of leaves to get rid of.   There's lots of mature trees in their yard.  

I stayed and played for about an hour and then met Mehgan in the Gap for lunch.   It was nice getting to see her and catch up because I don't see her that often. We hung out for about an hour and then I headed back to the house.   Tom came to my parents to visit with me for a little bit.   It was good getting to see him and catch up on things.   

After he left I stopped at Sean and Jamie's for about an hour to visit with them and the kids.   I miss them a lot when we are gone because I spent a lot of time with them.   The girls are getting so big!   

This is Lizzie.    She's just the cutest little girl ever!

And this is Aubrey.   She's a piece of work!  She has the best personality ever.   She's a lot of fun!

After visiting with them I ran over to Cyndee's to visit with her and the dogs.   She's been baking cookies all weekend like a baking machine.   I hung out with her for about an hour but she had a nail appointment and had to go so I headed back over to my mom's and put on my fluids.  Amber came over with the boys and Shawn and Courtney came over.   We played a game called Pie in the Face.   I'm sure you can imagine the game.  It was fun!  

They stayed til about 7 and left to go home.   I got all my stuff together and organized and packed what I could.  I drank my sleepy time tea and got ready for bed.   I put on my tpn late because my osteomy bag broke so I had to deal with that for a half hour.   Colin and I are leaving early this morning to head back home.   Wish us safe travels!   I will let you know when we are home safe and sound.  Have a good day! 

Saturday November 14

Got up early in the morning and went over to Cyndee's to meet Colin.   We took the dogs over to The Fish Place to get dog food so Cyndee has it for a while.   When we got there, there was a line of people at the door all with dogs.   They apparently we're having a shot clinic.  We stayed in line and got the dogs shots for $20!   You can't beat it!   They are good for 3 years now.   

After that we went over to Brooke's new house.   It's a gorgeous house and it was great to see the family.   We hung out for a little bit and then left because they had a full day ahead of them.

I went back to my parent's and put my fluids on.   Mom and Dad and I ran to her work and ran a couple of errands.    We stopped back at the house and Mom had dinner.  After she ate we ran to the mall so she could spend some gift cards.   We got a lot of great deals at JCpenneys.   We also went to the Apple Store because I've been having issues with my phone.  They put us on the waiting list so we killed time browsing some different stores.   

When it was finally time for my phone, they couldn't replicate the issue because it was so random.  I explained to the guy that my phone is literally my life line and that if I get a call about my transplant and miss it, it's a huge deal.  I need my phone to be in working order at all times.   He felt bad for me after I told him my story and he spoke to his manager about my situation.   He came back and said they wouldn't normally do it but they replaced my phone for free with a brand new phone not something that was refurbished.   It was so nice of him and now my phone seems to be in perfect working order so I'm not stressing so much about it randomly losing service and going into airplane mode.   

We ended up being at the mall til 8:30 last night.  I got home, put on my tpn and went to bed.  

I'm meeting Mehgan for lunch today so I have a chance to see her.   Then I'm probably going to go see Sean and Jamie and Aubrey and Elizabeth at some point.   I want to spend some time with the twins so I'll probably go over there and see them before I go.  I'll write more later.   Have a good day! 

Special Thanks - Friday November 13

A Special Thanks

To my Mom and Dad - they are constantly thinking of new ways to raise money for my transplant.   They are always working hard and making sure I have what I need.   I couldn't do this without them!!  It's hard being away but they make it a little easier each day checking in and sending cards and notes in the mail.   It's always nice just to know you are always thinking of me.   I love you both more than words can say.  

To Colin - you gave up everything you know and love to relocate to Pittsburgh with me.   I know it has been hard but I couldn't do this without your love and support.   You keep me positive when I'm feeling down and you keep me grounded when I am going to lose it. I love you and couldn't do this without you.   I know it's been hard but I want you to know that I truly appreciate you and everything you do.

To Amber and Bobby - you have both done everything you can to make my transition a little easier.   It has been really hard being away from you and the boys but you always make sure to call me daily and face time every night.   It makes my day a little easier each time.   I love you guys and miss you all every day.  

To Shawn and Courtney -  thank you for you consistent phone calls to check in and your constant love and support.   You are always there for me when I need you and I love you both for everything you do!   You are a huge part of my support system.  I couldn't do this without the two of you!  I love you!

To Cyndee- you opened up your home to us without thinking twice when we needed the help most.  Your constant love and support will never be forgotten.   You have even taken on the task of the dogs which I know can be difficult at times but we truly appreciate it and know that they are safe and taken care of.   You make it a little easier for us to be away.   Thank you for always being there and for your love and support.   We love you!!!

To Kelly - you always out-do yourself.   You have raised so much money for us and have participated in every type of sale possible to help raise the money.   I know it's a lot and you are a busy girl with your work and your family but you always seem to find a way to make me a priority.   I thank you for everything you do and for you continued love and support.   You always come through.   I love you and couldn't get through this without your love and support.   

Thank you to everyone who has participated in all of the events, the sales of shirts, bracelets, subs and for all the contributions to the transplant fund.   I am overwhelmed with the love and support.   

Friday November 13

This morning I got up and went with my dad to take my mom breakfast at work and to run some errands.   My dad organized another sub sale to raise money for my transplant.   

I want to take a few minutes to thank everyone who helps to sell the subs and who purchase them.   I met some lovely people at Evergreen Estates.   Thank you for your prayers and support.   It was great getting to put faces to the names I hear.   

A huge thank you to the employees ProTech and Dave Stover.   You have been a huge support system for my Dad and Shawn and have raised a huge amount of money for my transplant.   I can't thank you enough for all you are doing.   It was great to meet some of the employees and thank them in person.  

Another thank you to Hajoca!   I got to meet some really great people there yesterday.   They organized a sub sale as well and made huge contributions to my transplant fund.   Thank you for your continued support and for everything you do.   I'm glad I was able to come in and meet you!

Another huge thank you to Amber Kenyon and Lancaster Labs.   They are a huge contributor to the sub sales and have raised a lot of money for the transplant fund.  Amber does so much for me and is always trying to come up with creative ways to help out.   Thank you for everything!

A couple personal thank you's.   Thank you to Lisa and Jim Whitman, Matt and Brandon Clawges and Pat Kulp.   They participate in every sub sale and have always been huge supporters.   I thank you for your continued love and support.   It means more to me than you know!!! 

Thank you to Brooke and David.   They participate in every sub sale and are always here for me no matter what.   I love you guys!!!

A HUGE thank you to Clipper Magazine and Kelly Schavnis.   You guys always out-do yourselves with the sub sales and amaze me every time!!!   Each department in the company helps to sell the subs and I can't thank you enough!!   I am forever greatful for all the love and support you show me.   It means the world to me and I love you for all you do!!!

Thank you to Brynn Kreider for her sales!   She always goes above and beyond!   I love you for everything you do!!!   You have been one of my biggest supporters!!  Thank you for being such a good friend.

After running around for all the sub sales and collecting money etc.  Dad and I went back home and I put on my fluids for a couple of hours.   We got ready and went to the school to pick up Carter and Caden.   They had early dismissal.   We picked them up and went bowling.   We had a really good time.   Mom and Dad went and after bowling we played in the arcade.  It was a lot of fun.   

We took some bowling selfies.   We had a great time.   We went back to mom's and played Bingo for a little while until Amber came to pick them up.   It was fun getting to spend the day with them!!   I really miss them when I'm away.   

I was tired after the day so I just chilled out on the couch the rest of the night.  I put on my tpn and went to bed around 9.   I was asleep by 10 and slept til about 4.   My battery on my tpn pump died and woke me up. I couldn't go back to sleep after that.   

Not sure what I have going on today.  I will update later.   Have a good day!! 

Thursday November 12

I woke up in the morning and straightened up the house.   I invited a bunch of people over for dinner so I wanted everything to be spotless.  

I ran over to Sean's shop because my car was showing an engine code.   He hooked it up and sent me over to another garage for them to look at it.   Turns out they put the wrong sensors in.   I had a dentist appointment for a cleaning so I went to that quick and went back to the garage and waited for them to fix my car.   It only took about 45 minutes.  The engine lights are off now and there are no more codes.   

I stopped at the store on my way home and got some soda, chips and dessert to have with dinner.  I chilled out and put my fluids on for the afternoon.   

Around 5 people started showing up.   My whole family came for dinner, Josh and Alesha came with the kids, Brynn came for dinner, Kelly and Thomas came. It was nice being surrounded by so many people I love.   It's also really overwhelming.   We had a really good time.   It was hectic but nice that everyone was here.   

After they left I put on my tpn, drank my sleepy time tea and went to bed.   I fell asleep around 10 and woke up about three times.   I was up bright and early at 6 this morning.   Dad and I are going to spend the day together today since he's been away all week.   I'm excited to be able to spend time with him.   I'll write more later.  Have a good day today! 

Wednesday November 11

I woke up early.   Got dressed and went in to Clipper to visit.   I stopped on my way in and got a bouquet of flowers for Kelly along with her favorite breakfast to brighten her day a little bit.   

I was at Clipper for about four hours visiting and making my rounds.   I tried to get to everybody I wanted to see but there were some people not at their desks or not in and I'm sorry I missed you on my rounds.   

I want to say something to all my co-workers.   I wouldn't be where I am without your love and support.   I have made so many great friends in my employment there and I truly can't tell you enough how much I appreciate each and every one of you.   It's really hard being away from home but you make it easier by sending messages via Facebook, sending cards in the mail and just calling or texting to check on me.   I really miss home and you all make it a little easier for me.   So Thank You from the bottom of my heart.   

It was so nice visiting and a little emotional for me but I had a great time.  Hopefully next visit I'll be post-transplant and on my way to a full recovery!!!   Please stay in touch and keep the positive energy coming my way!!  

After Clipper I went to visit Jody for a little bit.  I put on my fluids and hung out.  Then Amber picked me up after she was done with work and we went to the spa.   We had facials and manicures.   It was a lot of fun and nice to spend quality time with her.   We got home around 9.   I put on my tpn and went to bed.   

I had a really rough night last night.   My steroids created thrush in my mouth again so my tongue and throat are coated and really sore.   It kept me up most of the night.  It really sucks.   Then around 4 am my bag started leaking.   I had to get up and clean up the mess and change my bag.  I never went back to sleep so I'm thinking I'm in for a really long day.   I have a dentist appointment at noon today for a cleaning and then tonight my family is coming over for pizza.   I may get daring and bake a cake.   We will have to see how I feel.   

Well....that was my day yesterday and my evening.   I'll post more later.  Have a good day. 

Tuesday November 10

I had my clinic appointment this morning.  It went really well.   All my labs look good.   My liver functions are staying up.   My pain and nausea are much better.   I'm not taking any pain medicine at all.   They adjusted my steroids a little bit to see if I can sleep better by lowering the dose around bedtime slightly.   Hopefully it helps and I get a good nights sleep tonight.   

We were done with my appointment by 9:30 this morning so we hopped in the car and headed to Lancaster.   It rained the entire trip and was really foggy in the mountain portion of the turnpike.   We made it home in 3 hours and 45 minutes and we stopped three times so I could empty my bag.  Pretty good timing.  

After we got to Lancaster I went to visit Amanda.  Last visit I couldn't go see her because Sofia had strep throat.  I took my fluids with me and did my Iv while I was there.   I got to spend some time with Sofia and saw the boys for the first time in months.  I really miss them.   It was nice being able to chill out and spend quality time with her.   Georgette and Butch came over as well so I was able to see them and spend time with them as well.   

Aren't they the cutest kids ever!!!   I love them and miss them so much!!!

I left Amanda's and picked up Mom's dog Ringo from boarding.   I took him home and dropped him off and then I went to Cyndee's to see my puppies and to visit with her a little.  My dogs were really excited to see me.   I feel really bad leaving them.  I wish Wyatt got along with Ringo.  I would bring them to Mom's to stay with me if they got along.   We are just afraid to try putting them together because they are both male and pretty aggressive.   I wouldn't want Wyatt to hurt Ringo since he's so much bigger.  

I really miss my dogs.   I would love to bring them to Pittsburgh with me.  I might talk to Colin about it and see what he thinks.  I think it would help my state of mind.  We will see.  

On my way home from cyndees I stopped at Shawn and Courtney's because I wanted to see them.  I hung out for about an hour and then left so I could put on my tpn.   I'm now laying in bed watching Big Bang Theory.  I'm hoping to get a good night's sleep tonight. Wish me luck.  I'm going to need it.  Have a good night.   Until tomorrow....

Monday November 9

I slept a little better last night.   I was in my own bed so I'm sure that helped.   Hopefully I will sleep tonight.   We have to get up at 6am to be at the hospital at 7 for my usual Tuesday appointment.   

Today was a lazy day.  We rented two movies and hung around the house.   We rented The Gift.   It was pretty good.   I would recommend watching it.   We also rented The Duff.  Not really worth the time to watch it.  I wasn't really impressed.  

I straightened up the house and did some laundry just so when I get home I won't have to worry about anything and we will come home to a clean house.  I had to change my osteomy bag today too which takes a lot of time.  

Mom is doing some work and I'm watching the news.   Wish me luck on sleeping tonight.  Sweet dreams.  I will check back in tomorrow.    

Sunday November 8

Got up early this morning and went to breakfast with my mom, Aunt Peg and cousin Mark.   Then we went to Honey's and hung out for the morning.  

My Aunt Joan and Uncle Jesse came to have lunch with Honey for her birthday so we ordered subs for lunch and hung out a little while.   Mom and I left around 1:30 to head back to Pittsburgh.  

We made it home safe and sound.  We are just hanging out and watching tv this evening.  Not really feeling too adventurous.   We made it home in about an hour and forty minutes.  We had to stop a couple of times so I could empty my bag.  That always adds to our drive time.   

It's getting to be about time to put on my tpn and get ready for bed.  Have a good night.   Hopefully I can get some sleep tonight.  

Sweet dreams!

Saturday November 7

Woke up early and went with Shawn to the cemetery this morning to visit my grandfather and uncle's grave sites and to pray.   

After that we headed over to Honey's for the day.   We got there pretty early but she was awake and out of bed.  We hung out there all morning and afternoon.  Her birthday pizza party was at 5:00 so I had gotten decorations at the store and Shawn and my cousin Mark helped me decorate for the party.   

I was feeling a little weak today so I put on an extra bag of fluids just to be proactive and make sure I was well enough for the party later and I wasn't too weak.

It was so nice seeing everyone!   Honey had a great time.  I haven't seen some of my cousins in over 5 years and I got to see them last evening.   It was a lot of fun catching up.   

Here's just a couple of pictures from the evening.  Honey was really happy.   Sunday the 8th marks her exact 96th Birthday!!!   She's in great spirits and great health!  She's really loved and hopefully she's feeling all the love this weekend!   

After the party Dad and Shawn went home.   Mom and I are going back to Honey's for lunch Sunday and then we are heading back to Pittsburgh for a few days.  Colin is hunting this week so I'll be hanging out with my mom for the week.   She's going to go to my clinic appointment with me on Tuesday and then she's going to bring me to Lancaster after my appointment so I can visit and since Colin isn't going to be home.  

I'm having another sleepless night tonight.   Hopefully I can get back to sleep.   I thought updating my blog might help me become tired again.   Hopefully I can get back to sleep.   Have a good night.  I will post tomorrow (today).   Until then....sweet dreams!

Friday November 6

I fell asleep ok last night but I woke up at 2am and wasn't able to get back to sleep.  I'm exhausted.   Hopefully I'll get some sleep tonight.  

We went to breakfast this morning.   I obviously just partake in the enjoying the company of my family.  We went to visit my Grandma and Pap.   It was nice to see them since I haven't seen them since they came to visit me in the hospital.   After our visit with them we went to Honey's.   We hung out here all day.  I'm super exhausted.   We are meeting my Uncle Rick for dinner and then back to the hotel to get some sleep hopefully.  

Time will tell.  Wish me luck ;).  Have a good night.   Sweet Dreams!

Thursday November 5

I woke up this morning and drove to Altoona.   It was a nice and easy drive.   It took about an hour and a half.

I spent the day with Honey, Rosemary, my Aunt Peg, cousin Mark, mom and dad.   It was a pretty uneventful day but nice to spend time with family.   

We just got back to the hotel so I can put my tpn on and get ready for bed.   I'm hoping to get some sleep tonight.   I will try to post some pictures of family tomorrow.   Have a good night.  Sweet dreams.

Wednesday November 4

Today was not a good day.   I went to Giant Eagle to return my movies from yesterday and some stupid piece of trash slammed on her brakes to get into the McDonald's parking lot and i tapped her bumper.   I could have kicked her car harder.   She took my info and I took some pics but there was nothing wrong.   People like that drive me crazy.   Hopefully nothing comes of it.   I guess time will tell.

That was my bad day.   After that I decided to lock myself in the apartment and not go anywhere.   Hopefully tomorrow will be a better day.   I'm headed to Altoona tomorrow to meet up with my parents and family for Honey's birthday.    For those of you who don't know....Honey is my grandmother.   She's going to be 96 this weekend!   I'm excited to be able to spend her birthday with her and to catch up with family.  

I'm leaving early tomorrow morning.   It's only about an hour and a half trip.   I'm going to hop in the shower and change my osteomy bag so that it will hopefully hold through my trip.  I'll update this weekend.   Have a good night.    Sweet dreams!

Tuesday November 3

My appointment went ok today.   My labs look perfect!  My body is physically ready for the transplant.

They aren't going to list me yet until I have some counseling sessions to make sure I'm mentally prepared.   Kind of a bummer.   I was really hoping to be listed.  

I'm spending my afternoon/evening watching movies.   I'm hoping it will lift my spirits a little bit.   My evening is going to consist of Magic Mike and She's Funny That Way.   Hope you have a good evening.   I'm going to cuddle up on the couch.   

Monday November 2

Well.....Colin figured out what is going on with me.    They added a medication last week that I haven't been on before.   We were trying to figure out what was different.   When we looked up the medicine, the side effects are severe fatigue, shakiness, dizziness and pretty much everything I've been experiencing.   Luckily it's something I only have to take for a week so after today I'm actually done with it and will hopefully get back to normal.

Reading the side effects and figuring it out made us both feel so much better.   It was kind of scary for a little bit.

Yesterday we decided to go to Cabelas for something to do.   It was a nice little road trip.   It wasn't as big as the one we have at home but it was an experience.

 

Today we ran errands and watched Southpaw.   It was a pretty good movie.   We started watching Tomorrowland but couldn't get into it and shut it off.   

Tonight is going to be a chill night because I have my clinic appointment tomorrow at 7.   Early to bed for me and hopefully some sleep tonight.   I didn't sleep at all last night so hopefully I can catch up tonight.

Until then....have a good night.   Wish me luck tomorrow.