Introductions -- Saran Wrap Use Number 53...

Hey Ya'll!  If you're reading this you've either stumbled upon my page by accident or on purpose -- whatever the circumstance -- Wecome!  I invite you to join me as I embark on a journey towards kidney transplantation.  Whether you've been in my shoes, love someone that's walked this path, are one of my cherished friends/family or just curious... buckle up... the trip's bumpy, the terrain's a little rugged and my shoes are a little worn -- but I have the most amazing guide in the driver's seat -- With Jesus Christ as my co-captain the rewards are in the experiences!!! (okay, I know, a lot of mixed metaphors ---keep up ;D )
So, a little background to get things started...
I'm a ten year "transplant veteran" -- In 2000 I received a living related kidney.  I was diagnosed with ureteral obstruction as a young child, unfortunately, this came late on the heels of previous misdiagnosis.  It was also discovered that I had only one kidney (it was surmised that I was born with only one native kidney).  Following several years of diet-controlled Chronic Renal Failure (CRF) I started peritoneal dialysis (PD).  Following 4 years of PD -- which was a fantastic experience (and a great enforcer of curfew LOL), I received a new kidney.  This kidney has provided me with freedom.  In the tens years I've had it, I've visited Europe, graduated HS and college, embarked on a career... In short -- I've LIVED!  I have been so richly blessed by the experiences and my life has been enriched by the many lessons I've learned along the way.
For example...
* The traditional cowboy phrase may be "don't squat with yer spurs on", but I found it equally helpful to camp within the 6ft dialysis cord-length next to the bathroom :)
* Saran Wrap works great as water-proofing -- but it squeaks when wet  (Every seen the "Mummy" -- need I say more?)
* Cyclosporine is a great bug repellant :)

Yep, I've learned a lot...  Now I'm learning how things work on the other side of transplantation.  In March I learned that I was beginning to experience CRF again and needed to begin the steps for re-transplantation.  That brings us to the present.... This blog spot will chronicle my experiences in the hope that I can help others experiencing similar situations.  I welcome questions... It is my goal to be authentic and honest -- some days are better than others -- but through it all I cling to the knowledge that God is in control, He loves me and He may not see fit to remove my obstacles from me -- but He will help me through them!  The 1st few posts may be incorrectly dated b/c I've decided to share some of my journaling from March to present....
Romans 12:12 - "Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer".
--V