We got the call for Holly!

[Xplantdad]

Well, we got the call that we've been waiting for-for almost 4 years! We got a kidney offer for Holly this morning at 4 am.

We have decided to accept the offer-and we will put Holly on dialysis this morning as instructed by the staff at Mayo-then, go the hospital in anticipation of the kidney arriving. We should be at the hospital by 9:30am. Once the kidney arrives-the folks at Mayo will check it out thoroughly and if everything is good to go with both Holly and the kidney-the transplant should happen around noon.


We ask that you please pray for the donor, for Holly's upcoming surgery and a good outcome after surgery


http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/pics/usergals/2016/12/full-1805-54807-dscf0854.jpg

[Dave Rifkin]

What a wonderful Christmas present; congratulations and I hope and pray that everything goes off without a hitch.

[chevyman0429]

That's a fantastic Christmas present prayers will be sent for Holly and the family. Make sure to keep us posted.

[njsteve]

Excellent news! <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/biggthumpup.gif

[iluv69s]

Great news !! Prayers from here !!

[Xplantdad]

Thanks all. We are on dialysis at home now...and will be done in about 2.5 hours.

We are all nervous...but know we have the best of the best to guide us through all of this. I ask again that those who pray-please pray for the donor and the donor family-as they gave the ultimate gift...the gift of life. <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/youguysrock.gif

[azcamaros]

Great news! My thoughts and prayers with Holly and your family.

[cook_dw]

Very cool.. Praying everything goes well..

[PeteLeathersac]

'

Amazing news, prayers sent plus more to come for Holly and the Donor also both your families!
God's blessings and guiding hand to the surgeons also everyone involved w/ this most beautiful Christmas gift!
<<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/worship.gif
~ Pete

[earntaz]

WOW!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Go for it Holly -- our prayers are with you ... Anna &amp; Craig <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/youguysrock.gif <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/HollyRocks.gif <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/BruceRocks.gif <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/santa.gif <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/smile.gif

[bbbentley]

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: PeteLeathersac</div><div class="ubbcode-body">'

Amazing news, prayers sent plus more to come for Holly and the Donor also both your families!
God's blessings and guiding hand to the surgeons also everyone involved w/ this most beautiful Christmas gift!
<<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/worship.gif
~ Pete



</div></div>
Ditto cause I can't say it any better- Merry Christmas...indeed!

[67 Nova Boy]

That is wonderful news...here is many hugs going your way for all!

Dave
67 Nova Boy

[Lynn]

So glad for for your family Bruce.
In our thougts and prayers.

[mockingbird812]

Wonderful - WONDERFUL!!! <span style="font-size: 26pt"><span style="font-style: italic"><span style="font-weight: bold">Go get 'me Holly!!!!</span></span></span> <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/biggthumpup.gif

[Verne_Frantz]

Such great news Bruce.! I was always hoping to hear something like this. I'm confident that with the best team you have there that everything will work out perfectly.

Verne

[Bill Pritchard]

Wonderful news, Bruce.....saying a prayer for all involved. Merry Christmas!

[m22mike]

Take care and hope all goes well today, and Bruch tell Holly I will see her at the Pavilions in January. <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/HollyRocks.gif

[x77-69z28]

Has there ever been a better Christmas present than this? I don't think so! I can't imagine how this feels for you guys! Give Holly a big kiss for me. I am praying til I hear back from you!
Buddy <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/HollyRocks.gif

[SuperNovaSS]

We are praying for you guys.


Jason

[Charley Lillard]

Wow....Merry Christmas you guys. We are all here sending our best success wishes...

[tom406]

Merry Christmas and absolute best wishes to everyone involved.

[Xplantdad]

Thanks...we're off to the hospital now. We will update when we can <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/beers.gif <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/youguysrock.gif

[70 Forest Green Zee]

Great news Bruce....good things happen to good people! You and your family will be in my thoughts this holiday season!

[Craig_Maiorana]

Just in time for Christmas .. Best wishes guys

[scuncio]

That's great news, great Christmas present!

[68l30]

Prayers and strength headed your way Holly... <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/biggthumpup.gif

In this season of giving...God Bless the Donor and their family. There is no greater gift <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/worship.gif


BIG

[danachevroletfor1967]

Prayers said and good thoughts for Holly and her family and for the donor family too. What a great happening at this special time of the year.

[earntaz]

Bruce and family -- Psalm 91 ... Anna &amp; Craig <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/smile.gif

[CC Rider]

I am also here at Mayo. My wife has a scheduled procedure today. I've seen the Blythes twice and things are going well. As of now, Holly is in pre-op.

Hope it was OK to share this. <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/HollyRocks.gif

[Tenney]

<<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/HollyRocks.gif

[Ryan1969Chevelle]

Prayer sent!!

You guys deserve this positive step!!!

Ryan

[CC Rider]

She is in surgery. <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/HollyRocks.gif

[Xplantdad]

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: 69SUPERSPORT396</div><div class="ubbcode-body">She is in surgery. <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/HollyRocks.gif </div></div>

Rick is correct! It's a go...and a perfect match. We met with the surgeon briefly. Holly is in surgery now <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/smile.gif

[Damien]

Fantastic news Bruce! Our best to Holly and you guys, what a great Xmas present. <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/biggthumpup.gif <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/HollyRocks.gif <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/BruceRocks.gif

[MosportGreen66]

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Xplantdad</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: 69SUPERSPORT396</div><div class="ubbcode-body">She is in surgery. <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/HollyRocks.gif </div></div>

Rick is correct! It's a go...and a perfect match. We met with the surgeon briefly. Holly is in surgery now <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/smile.gif </div></div>

Wow did this move fast from this morning's texts, Bruce! Thinking of Holly!

Dan

[earntaz]

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: 69SUPERSPORT396</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I am also here at Mayo. My wife has a scheduled procedure today. I've seen the Blythes twice and things are going well. As of now, Holly is in pre-op.

Hope it was OK to share this. <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/HollyRocks.gif </div></div>

Same to you Rick -- we're praying !! Craig

[1969grb]

Best wishes to all of you! What a great Christmas gift.


Grady

[Xplantdad]

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: MosportGreen66</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Xplantdad</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: 69SUPERSPORT396</div><div class="ubbcode-body">She is in surgery. <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/HollyRocks.gif </div></div>

Rick is correct! It's a go...and a perfect match. We met with the surgeon briefly. Holly is in surgery now <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/smile.gif </div></div>

Wow did this move fast from this morning's texts, Bruce! Thinking of Holly!

Dan </div></div>

Yes it did...and thanks for the texts. Claire, Rick's wife is doing well, too <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/smile.gif

[Xplantdad]

Transplant is done and she's in recovery. The transplanted kidney has already made a bit of urine <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/smile.gif . Thank you everyone for your prayers and positive thoughts

[Ryan1969Chevelle]

Wow, that is such a good sign so quickly:-)

Prayers continue!!!!

Ryan

[BJCHEV396]

Great news!!

[earntaz]

Glad to her that!! Anna &amp; Craig <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/HollyRocks.gif

[TOM K]

Great News!!!!!!

[napa68]

Our prayers and thoughts.

Merry Christmas!

Tim &amp; Tracey

[leach]

Fantastic Christmas present will pray that all goes well.

[m22mike]

God bless you guys. Awesome news.

Mike

[ZAPPER68]

Fantastic...what great news!

Whoever the donor is has provided Holly with a very special Christmas gift. God bless them and Holly for their strength and courage.

[Lynn]

Freakin AWESOME.

[KenMaisano]

Amazing news!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Thank God!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[Mr. Chevy]

Great news Bruce!!

Rich

[bilede]

Wow, just heard the news and our prayers are with everyone involved.

[Plowman]

Great news and are prayers are with you too.

[David Billingsley]

Prayers sent

[mssl72]

Prayers goin' out!!

[bergy]

Terrific! Praying for a speedy recovery.

[parkbrau]

Awesome sauce! what a great x-mas gift.

[RST]

Wonderful, sending good thoughts and prayers <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/smile.gif

[chevyandpontiac]

Our prayer are with you guys. Now for a speedy recovery, and a Merry Christmas.

[Woj]

Wow, what great news Bruce. All our best to Holly and your family.

Phil W.

[earntaz]

Hope this AM finds all is well -- TAZ <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/youguysrock.gif

[XXXGoldL34M20]

All the best to Holly and your Family <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/biggthumpup.gif

[69 Post Sedan]

I just seen this thread.......what an awesome day for all of you. Hope Holly has a speedy recovery!!!!!!!

Kurt

[olredalert]

----Have been out of touch. Such good news!!!

----Should have added one of my standard thoughts, &quot;Good things happen to good people&quot;.....Bill S

[WILMASBOYL78]

<span style="font-size: 11pt">Yes Holly...there is a Santa Claus <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/santa.gif

God speed and best wishes to everyone involved with this miracle <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/beers.gif

-wilma </span>

[flyingn]

Wonderful news! God Bless you guys and speedy recovery, Holly! Much love!

[flyingn]

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Xplantdad</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Transplant is done and she's in recovery. The transplanted kidney has already made a bit of urine <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/smile.gif . Thank you everyone for your prayers and positive thoughts </div></div>

Awesome news Bruce!!!!

[A12pilot]

That is just awesome news! Thoughts your way!

Cheers

Dave

[juliosz]

Great news, our prayers to you and your family Bruce.

Paul

[budnate]

fantastic News Bruce! give the kid a scratch on the head for me, Merry Christmas!

[Xplantdad]

Update part 1:

Here's the update for holiday after transplant still waiting for the kidney to output urine. But that's to be expected on kidneys that have been out of the body for awhile. They will probably do dialysis today to help her clear the toxins from her body. We will be moving out of the critical room to the regular care room. Doctor's rounds will happen here in a bit. As if on cue, Holly's long term nephrologist, Dr. Thomas came by and visited, too. We thanked him for his outstanding care...as we will now transition to the Kidney transplant team docs.

Merry Christmas everyone!

And part two:

Update for the afternoon. Holly is in dialysis now. They are not pulling off any fluid...just filtering the blood. Transplant surgeon came in and thinks everything looks good. Transplant follow up team and doc think everything looks great, too. Word is that we may be home for Christmas eve! We have 70 plus appointments so far...and dialysis starts (for the short term) on Monday evening.Cardiac team still has to visit today!

http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/pics/usergals/2016/12/full-1805-54862-1482536865433444982942.jpg

[Xplantdad]

Cannot rotate from the phone sorry <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/smile.gif <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/youguysrock.gif

[Tommy Nolen]

Praise the Lord !!

[earntaz]

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Xplantdad</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Cannot rotate from the phone sorry <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/smile.gif <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/youguysrock.gif </div></div>

Don't fret the small stuff Bruce -- we'll take it standing on our heads if need be ... Anna and Craig (TAZ) <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/youguysrock.gif <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/biggthumpup.gif <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/santa.gif

[LS7]

Glad to hear Holly is doing well. God bless and Merry Christmas to you and your family.

[Xplantdad]

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: earntaz</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Xplantdad</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Cannot rotate from the phone sorry <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/smile.gif <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/youguysrock.gif </div></div>

Don't fret the small stuff Bruce -- we'll take it standing on our heads if need be ... Anna and Craig (TAZ) <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/youguysrock.gif <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/biggthumpup.gif <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/santa.gif </div></div>

Home for a bit....


This should work better!

http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/pics/usergals/2016/12/full-1805-54869-transplantdayafter.jpg

[earntaz]

Excellent color and an even better smile!!! <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/HollyRocks.gif

[StriperSS]

I've been on this site for quite a few years and don't post too often, but have been following Hollys story. She's been through a lot, but it seems things are looking up for her. I hope she has a speedy recovery. <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/smile.gif

[Canuck]

She looks good!
Merry Christmas!

Paul

[JBALL]

Congrats Bruce. Merry Christmas.

[NorCam]

That is great news.

Continued well wishes and prayers for you all, and a very Merry Christmas to you and your family.

[427425]

Fantastic news , Bruce, give Holly a big hug for me and hope you Lynn and Holly have a wonderful Christmas at home.She looks great, can't wait to see you all at the Pavilions. Praying for a speedy recovery.

[enio45]

Bruce - congrats on the transplant and success.....hope all continues and you all have a Merry Xmas.....

[resto4u]

miracle girl, she always has a smile. Hope you have a speedy recovery! <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/HollyRocks.gif

[Xplantdad]

Hi all...we are home...sweet home! Lots of doctor appointments over the next few months...more than a hundred at the latest count <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/smile.gif

As we were leaving the hospital, we ran into a delivery person bringing Holly a beautiful bouquet...and a teddy bear...from &quot;Yenko.net&quot;

Holly says <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/youguysrock.gif and Thank you to Charley!

http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/pics/usergals/2016/12/full-1805-54885-hollyhome.jpg

[earntaz]

Aaahhh -- home sweet home ... nothing like being there!! You go girl!!! TAZ

[Charley Lillard]

But what did the card say ?

[galveston]

Hoping for a speedy recovery Holly! <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/HollyRocks.gif

[Bill Pritchard]

Home for Christmas....outstanding!!!

[ORIGLS6]

What an amazing Christmas Gift !

[SS427]

Time to change your sign-on Bruce to.......... <span style="font-weight: bold">2Xplantdad</span> <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/HollyRocks.gif

[SuperNovaSS]

Welcome home Holly!


Merry Christmas,


Jason

[Xplantdad]

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Charley Lillard</div><div class="ubbcode-body">But what did the card say ? </div></div>

It said Seahawks suck...LOL

Holly wanted to know how your &quot;Noners&quot; are doing this year! <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/hmmm.gif <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/haha.gif <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/beers.gif

[Charley Lillard]

Wanna buy a field goal kicker ?

[Xplantdad]

LOL...Holly says she thanks you for the flowers and the bear...it's with her in the bed now..!

[RST]

Well it's a wonderful birthday present for me to hear this news!!!

Merry Christmas !!!

[Xplantdad]

Happy birthday Scott!

[napa68]

Congratulations and a VERY Merry Christmas!

[Ryan1969Chevelle]

Good news all around, Holly doing well:-)

Prayers for a speedy recovery.

Ryan

HaPPy BirTHdAy Scott:-) You should update your profile and add personal info like BirTHday and credit card information:-)

[bkhpah]

Great news Holly! Get well soon..BKH

[earntaz]

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Xplantdad</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Charley Lillard</div><div class="ubbcode-body">But what did the card say ? </div></div>

It said Seahawks suck...LOL

Holly wanted to know how your &quot;Noners&quot; are doing this year! <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/hmmm.gif <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/haha.gif <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/beers.gif </div></div>

Go Pack!! <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/beers.gif

[Xplantdad]

And this wonderful Christmas morning...we are off to Mayo for an IV and blood tests (routine stuff), then we will come home and celebrate the best Christmas present ever.

We ask...that if you pray, please pray for the donor and the donor family....Oh, and <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/youguysrock.gif and <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/HollyRocks.gif

[Postsedan]

Wow! I just woke up.....Christmas Day and reading this thread for the first time. What a wonderful gift, so wonderful. Holly looks great.....continued success and prayers are being sent for Holly and the donor family <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/HollyRocks.gif <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/HollyRocks.gif <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/HollyRocks.gif

This has been the best Christmas Present to us all.

Dan

[Enoch]

Praying for the donor and family and also for you giys.

[carnut4life]

Congratulations for the greatest gift of all Bruce! God bless you all <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/HollyRocks.gif <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/BruceRocks.gif

[bbbenny]

What a Great gift. For both sides. Talk about something beinging PRICELESS! Merry Christmas to Holly and Bruce. <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/HollyRocks.gif

[Tenney]

Your family does cool stuff, Bruce - Merry Christmas!! <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/santa.gif

[Dicky]

Bless all of you, the donor and Holly. Merry Christmas from myself and my wife Julia.
Godspeed to all. <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/biggthumpup.gif

[COPO]

With so much bad news in the world, it is wonderful to read about something good. Merry Christmas.

[Xplantdad]

Merry Christmas all! We've invited Rick Eckenrode and his family over for Christmas...We were going to cook...but now we're gonna order out! <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/wink.gif

Everything at Mayo went fine today...so we have no doctor's visits until Tuesday ! <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/youguysrock.gif

[SuperNovaSS]

I think you guys deserve to order out. Enjoy the holiday.


Merry Christmas,

Jason

[Xplantdad]

Thanks Jason...I just thought I would post some more of the info about Holly's journey up to this point...for those who don't already know...or would like to read it. <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/beers.gif


<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Quote:</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I will tell you a little a bit about my daughter, Holly.

First of all I am my daughters caregiver-along with my wife.

My daughter was diagnosed with a myocardio fibroma tumor at the age of 2 1/2 months of age in 1990-when she presented with flu like symptoms (slight fever, nausea, etc). Once we got to the pediatrician, they hooked her up to a pulse oxymeter and her saturation levels stunk and her heart rate was near 300 beats per minute. She was throwing SVT's (Supraventricular tachycardia) and the pediatrician didn't know why-so off to the Children's Hospital of Orange County we went.

After we got there, they told us that they'd be able to slow the heart rate with a &quot;brand new&quot; miracle drug called adenosine. Unfortunately, that didn't work and then they proceeded to cardiovert her 17 times to try and stop the heart...so they could start it again. Unfortunately that didn't work either-so after 19 grueling hours, they opted to use digoxin as a last hope. That worked to bring the heart rate down. It eventually spiked a few more times until they dialed in a dose that kept her SVT's under control. They ended up giving her digoxin for the atrial fibrillations and dilantin for the ventricular fibrillation (lucky there weren't may of those while in the hospital).

After she stabilized enough, they performed open chest surgery and discovered the myocardial fibroma tumor. They originally were going to perform the surgery through her back side, but at the last minute, they decided to do it through the front. That was a good call as she flat lined on the table five or six times, until the surgeon actually froze the heart muscle temporarily so he could explore what what going on with the newly discovered tumor. What they found out was that the tumor already covered more than 80 percent of her heart-so surgery to repair wasn't an option. So, they sewed her up and sent her to recovery, where we were told she wouldn't survive. We were able to get our priest that had baptized her to come and give her last rites and we were able to say our goodbyes and went to the waiting room to wait for the word that she had passed.

What happened next was unbelievable-her status did a 180 in the hour after we saw her and the doctors allowed her back up to the ICU-where she maintained critical bodily function levels-not getting much better-but also not much worse either. We went and met with the doctors at Loma Linda Hospital. The doctors there were doing experimental heart transplant surgery-but we heard that they were getting close to approving the surgery as a normal procedure that would be covered by insurance. We decided that this was the only route that we could take and give Holly any chance at survival. She was put on the national transplant list at the beginning of August of 1990.

Eventually, after 2 weeks we we allowed to go home from the Children's Hospital in mid August 1990 after learning pediatric CPR and also with a pediatric apnea/heart monitor on at all times. Mid October 1990, Holly had multiple myocardial infarction's (heart attacks) at home. I was at work and my wife called the paramedics, then called me. I arrived home about the time they scooped her up to take her back to the Children's Hospital. They did their best with the CPR, but when Holly got to the hospital, she was flat lined-again. They worked for 35 minutes to establish a normal heart rhythm then came out and told us that it might be wise to get her priest (and family) to the hospital-as it didn't look good. Again, the father who had baptized her and previously given her last rites-gave her last rites again. Again, we went to the waiting room to wait for word that she had passed away.

From what we were told, the docs refused to give up and finally after 45 minutes-they established a normal heart rhythm. This came at a slight cost-as she experienced hypoxic seizuring-due to lack of oxygen to the brain. She seized so much that they eventually put her into a Phenobarbital coma to stop the swelling on her brain. Thus, we entered into the next stage of her medical issues.

Once the brain swelling went down, they took her off of the Phenobarbital-but she didn't wake up. They chief of staff of the Neurology department did EEG scans and extensive testing of the brain and she only had basal brain functions-no upper level brain functions were present. We were taken off of the national transplant list. We were moved from the ICU to a normal floor and had the discussion with Holly's pediatrician about what was going to happen. Holly at this time was stable enough to go home in the coma, but not medically viable for a transplant. So, we would go home and wait for her to die-then we'd call the pediatrician-and he'd take care of all the particulars (coroner, etc.)

Once again, Holly surprised all of us. The day she was supposed to be discharged to go home-we were watching TV in the hospital room that we were sharing with a hydro-cephalic child and heard a screech that started all of us. It was Holly and she had her eyes open and was looking around. I ran and got the charge nurse-who promptly called the Chief of Staff of the neurology department-who did a bunch of testing and he confirmed that Holly was &quot;Back&quot; with normal brain function. She was immediately put back on the national transplant list-and was moved back upstairs to the ICU for monitoring of the heart rhythms.

We had slept at the hospital continuously for most of the time she was in the hospital. The charge nurse convinced us to spend a day at home and that Holly had the best care-so for the first time, my wife and I went home to sleep for the night. At 5 am the next morning, we got a page on our pager that they had located a heart for Holly! She was life flighted to Loma Linda Hospital for the surgery. There were issues right before transplant there-but I won't get into those here...Holly had a successful heart transplant on November 15th 1990- (just a few days after the procedure went from an experimental procedure to a standard procedure covered by insurance).

Fast forward to 2012-and the toll of taking the immunosupressant medications was starting to become apparent in Holly kidney function. Her kidney function was starting to decrease pretty steadily-and her nephrologist held out as long as he could before putting her on the transplant list for a kidney in 2013. He was able to control kidney function with a series of 13 pills and keep her off of dialysis until January of 2015. At that point, it was decided to put her on peritoneal dialysis-as she had the least chance of infection going this route. She had the surgery at the beginning of February 2015 for the PD cath-and they gave her 1 month to have that heal (due to the immonsuppreasants and reduced immune system response). The days preceding the start of her PD dialysis-she was feeling miserable and could barely walk. We were told by the on call doc that as soon as she started the PD-she'd feel better.

What ended up happening was that we went for the first dialysis session-I literally had to carry Holly into the center. Once the nurse say her-we were sent to Mayo Hospital emergency room where there put a central venous catheter in and put her into ICU-as she was extremely septic. They did dialysis 3 times before she stabilized and was moved into a non ICU room and we were able to go home. We started hemodialysis at DSI in Phoenix in March of 2015 and got so frustrated with them that we went to Fresenius in May of 2015.

Our kidney doc thought we'd be great candidates for home hemo-so we started training in mid-January of 2015. By the beginning of February on 2016 we were released to do home hemo with the NXStage system. </div></div>

[John]

.... Wow, This is better then any Christmas movie <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/HollyRocks.gif

... Praying for a speedy recovery for all involved.

<<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/santa.gif <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/santa.gif <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/santa.gif

[tuty]

supernovass would like to talk to you about a carb my number
is 610 333 3121 mike i also sent you a pm im looking for 702 8213 carb
or anyone else

[L78 Fred]

Bruce- what an incredible story of faith and fortitude.

My thoughts and prayers are with Holly, your family and the Donor's Family - That a least a part of their child could provide life and comfort to your daughter and live on.

Please continue to keep us updated on Holly's journey back.

All the best positive thoughts and continued prayers in the New Year.
Regards,
Fred Schempp

[x77-69z28]

Reading the history again makes this story even more unbelievable! That girl is destined for great things, GREAT things I tell ya! I can't wait to show her around the Big Apple!
Buddy

[Xplantdad]

She's really looking forward to the trip to NYC <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/smile.gif . We're at our first clinic visit today. <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/smile.gif

[BJCHEV396]

A very brave and strong young lady.All the best to you Holly!

[earntaz]

Bruce -- how is Holly doing? Craig <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/HollyRocks.gif

[Xplantdad]

Hi Craig and everyone...

Here's the update for Holly. Kidney function is continually improving. She's doing number one...quite a bit...and is above the daily average.

She got the CVC (Central venous catheter) taken out today. The CVC was used as the hook up for dialysis both at home and at the dialysis center...which means....NO MORE DIALYSIS!

All of her blood tests are trending in the right direction...and where they expect Holly to be. Next step is staples removed next Tuesday and stent removed next Wednesday (Oh, and a million blood tests...LOL).

<<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/youguysrock.gif

[m22mike]

Great to here Bruce, thanks for the update.... <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/HollyRocks.gif

Mike

[earntaz]

Awesome! Can't wait to meet you guys ... Craig

[PeteLeathersac]

'
Awesome updates Bruce, more prayers sent!
<<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/HollyRocks.gif
~ Pete

[1969grb]

Happy to hear the great news!


Grady

[x77-69z28]

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!! What great news Bruce! Can't wipe this smile off my face!!! <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/HollyRocks.gif <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/laugh.gif

[mssl72]

That's really great news! I'm glad things are moving along in the right direction. All the best!

[bergy]

Wonderful news - keep praying for Holly!

[Ryan1969Chevelle]

Such positive, progress, :-)

Ryan

[napa68]

Now that's..........................A HAPPY NEW YEAR!

[markinnaples]

Great news. God Bless her Bruce.

[Steve Shauger]

This is just fabulous news. Bruce I couldn't be happier for Holly... <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/beers.gif

[Canuck]

Bruce

Each posting on Facebook after the transplant, i couldn't help but think how well she looked. I knew there would be a positive outcome.
A friend had his transplant about 4 years ago, doing well and so will Holly.

Paul

[SuperNovaSS]

Awesome news!

Jason

[Xplantdad]

<<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/youguysrock.gif is all that needs to be said.... <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/beers.gif

[Xplantdad]

I figured that I would give an update on Holly...as we are just past two months out from her transplant. Thing are going awesome for Holly and &quot;Alejandro&quot; (She named her kidney Alejandro <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/smile.gif ). Holly's creatinine is 1.2 (sometimes 1.1), she's on a low dose of immunosuppressants (the dose it actually lower than when she was on them just for the heart transplant!), all of the other markers and levels that they are measuring are well within spec, too!

She's gone from 80.2KG (right after transplant) to 71.1KG now. Her dry weight when she started dialysis was 69.6 (I think?) so she's almost back to that weight, too.

We pray nightly for the person who donated the kidney.

[Postsedan]

THE BEST NEWS <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/HollyRocks.gif

Dan

[WILMASBOYL78]

<span style="font-size: 11pt">Happy Days </span><<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/biggthumpup.gif

[earntaz]

Bruce and family -- our Lord shines on Holly!! Craig <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/youguysrock.gif

[John]

Bruce,
.... That is great news <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/biggthumpup.gif

<<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/HollyRocks.gif

[bbbenny]

You, guys are awesome!BBBenny <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/HollyRocks.gif

[RPOLS3]

Great news! <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/HollyRocks.gif

[Tenney]

<<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/HollyRocks.gif

[70 Forest Green Zee]

<<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/biggthumpup.gif <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/BruceRocks.gif <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/HollyRocks.gif <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/biggthumpup.gif

[SS427]

Keep up the great work Holly. You have surpassed so many challenges that we cannot even keep track of. Remarkable woman.

[MosportGreen66]

Amazing young woman you have there Bruce and what exemplary parents you and Lynn have been!

Dan

[markinnaples]

Great news, and May Jesus Bless Holly with continued health as well as Blessing the original donor.

[Xplantdad]

Holly says thanks to everyone...and that <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/youguysrock.gif

[L78 Fred]

Its nice to hear good news once in awhile!

Godspeed on her recovery and the best to you and your family!

And God bless the donor and family

Fred

[enio45]

Bruce, thank you for the update on Holly - pretty amazing road she and the family has traveled.....god bless to all of you!

[Zedder]

Awesome news! Saying a prayer for her speedy recovery...

[scuncio]

That is wonderful news Bruce.

[PeteLeathersac]

'

Awesome update Bruce, prayer is a powerful thing!
Gotta say, Holly's life experiences have helped me think clearly about organ donation.
<<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/HollyRocks.gif
~ Pete

[danachevroletfor1967]

Updates on Holly are always appreciated. Prayers and good wishes to her and her family and the donor and their family too.

[427freak]

This is Great. Holly is one Brave/Strong woman. Your whole family deserves these victories!!

[x77-69z28]

This thread gives me goosebumps every time I check it!!!
Buddy

[Xplantdad]

Thanks guys! Dana-I sent you a message on Facebook :)

[Xplantdad]

We just got back from the 4 month after transplant clinic visit (almost to the day). The doctor said that the kidney is doing great, no signs of rejection on the biopsy taken on Monday and her creatinine level is wonderful @1.1, too!

We see the doctors in about a month...and the blood tests are every other week now, too! Thanks to God, the donor for their wonderful gift and to our friends for their great support.

We will take it day by day and enjoy each day! Way to go Holly (and Alejandro!)


:youguysrock:

[BJCHEV396]

Glad to hear the good news Bruce!!!

[Ryan1969Chevelle]

So happy for this wonderful outcome!!!

Prayers for continued awesome results.

Ryan

[travlnz28]

Great news. Way to go Holly!

[earntaz]

We just got back from the 4 month after transplant clinic visit (almost to the day). The doctor said that the kidney is doing great, no signs of rejection on the biopsy taken on Monday and her creatinine level is wonderful @1.1, too!

We see the doctors in about a month...and the blood tests are every other week now, too! Thanks to God, the donor for their wonderful gift and to our friends for their great support.

We will take it day by day and enjoy each day! Way to go Holly (and Alejandro!)


:youguysrock:

All it takes is the good Lord, good doctors, good family and good friends ... Craig ...

[m22mike]

Awesome....:HollyRocks:

[PeteLeathersac]

'

Best news of the day!!
:HollyRocks:
~ Pete

.

[Postsedan]

'

Best news of the day!!
:HollyRocks:
~ Pete

.

X100,000.00

:HollyRocks:

Dan

[L78M22Rag]

Great news! This is such a good thread... thanks for all the updates.

[Tenney]

Hey cool!!

[mssl72]

That's fantastic news!!

[bergy]

WONDERFUL!!! Great blessing!

[John]

.... That's Great news ....

:HollyRocks:
:HollyRocks:
:HollyRocks:

[Woj]

Great news Bruce!!

Phil Woj.

[NorCam]

Great news Bruce. :HollyRocks:

[ZAPPER68]

Excellent...great news, thanks for the updates.

[danachevroletfor1967]

Great news. Always nice to get an update on Holly. Hope she continues to improve.

[mockingbird812]

Woohoo! Just wonderful!!!!!

[bbbenny]

Bruce, It;s time to start planning for the trip to the east coast. The offer still stands!!! BBBenny

[tjs44]

OK Bruce!You deserve a road trip!Seal Beach this sat!Tom

[scuncio]

Great news!

[Xplantdad]

Thanks Everyone...we are really happy. And in honor of April being donate life month....

Here is a video of a bunch of the Loma Linda Heart transplant kids (Holly is in there a few times-along with her buddy Adam(who passed away at 19 years old) and his mom). Enjoy...!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XgQNdIXWmqw&feature=share