[Lynn]

Boy Bruce, this really got to me. As you know, my wife just donated a kidney to our 18 hear old last June. I am really hurting for you bud. Hopefully, in some crazy way, the hurt I feel takes some hurt away from you and your family. I know this is tough. We were in the best of hands, with all the confidence possible in the team, but it is still tough. Humor helped us. Zack and I both have twisted sense of humor streaks, and we joked a lot. The team shirnk really loves working with us. He said we usually make his day.

Surgery on Sherri started at 7 am and they finished on Zack at 6 pm. Rooms were about .6 miles apart, so I walked about 20 miles that day, acting as the contact and keeping everyone informed.

Zack only had to do dialysis for 3.5 months before the transplant.

Once Holly has been cleared for transplant, the cad donor thing could happen any time day or night on a moment's notice. Zack was on the list for cad donor, but we chose the live donor because the success rate is better. Had a kidney come available in the interim, we already had decided on the criteria for acceptance, knowing we had the live option. I had planned to donate, but could not. I was devastated, as I really really thought I could do it, and would be able to spare Sherri that ordeal. Plus, Zack is a real momma's boy, and I knew he would really want his mom after surgery.

Surgery was on a Wed. Sherri went home Fri. Zack went home Sunday with a fully functioning new kidney. Sherri's mom (I am blessed with the best MIL in the world) and I took care of them at home during the extended recovery.

They are both doing great. Zack even endured band camp (not the one on American Pie you pervs) in 110 heat in August as long as he had lots of water. Sherri was back doing yard work in 3 or 4 weeks. I am so proud of both of them.

Thoughts and prayers are with you. If you don't still have my number, pm me. You were very supportive 4 years ago when I talked to you about our impending transplant situation. Be glad to return the favor, even if all you need to do is call and unload.