Yvonne asked me a couple of weeks ago if I would like to write a blog, and I politely declined. She is so eloquent with the written word, and the intimidation factor was too high! However, the time has come for me to write because there are simply too many people who have touched my life through this whole process that I will never be able to properly thank. The love, kindness and generosity shown to me and my family have been overwhelming. Yvonne’s team not only served her, but they flew into action to serve me as well. People I’d known but a few hours were suddenly lifelong friends, exhibiting true kindness and selfessness.
My dear, sweet David has been incredible through this journey, taking care of me, the kids, managing major projects at work, and all the while so strong, patient and loving. My family, friends, church, bible study group, and The Kindaid School have all provided meals, help with Shannon and Pete, and most importantly prayer.
I knew that donating my kidney could change Yvonne’s life, but I never knew how much it would change mine. Seeing Yvonne respond so quickly and have her health restored is nothing short of a miracle! God took care of every detail from start to finish, not that I doubted that He would or could, I just hadn’t grasped the magnitude. He did more than I had asked for, and I’m embarrassed, awed and grateful.
Our surgery was five weeks ago today, and the time has come for me to say adios and get back to my life, however simple and boring it may seem (especially to my two teenagers.) Our story has been told, and Channel 13 will be airing it sometime in the not-too-distant future. My hope is that others will be touched and motivated to be organ donors.
Life is so precious — I have new family, new friends and a forever life bond with my sweet “sista” Yvonne. I would do it again tomorrow, and I’m forever thankful that I had this incredible opportunity.
God is good — all the time!
Love, Beth
4 responses so far ↓
1 helen stanley // Apr 11, 2008 at 8:33 am
What a beautiful message. I will carry with me all day and will think of you every time I see Yvonne’s smiling face.
2 Ali // Apr 11, 2008 at 8:45 am
Beth-
I don’t think you had any reason to feel intimidated by Yvonne’s eloquence. That was poignant, heartfelt and beautiful.
What you did for her was such an amazing sacrifice… something that most of us can never begin to comprehend. It really shows that you have an amazing spirit and giving nature to do such a wonderful thing.
I think we both know that Yvonne is a really special lady. I just want to give you my sincere thanks and gratitude for giving her the gift of health. She’s touched my life in a way I can’t even begin to put in words and knowing that you brought her health, peace and comfort means the world to me.
3 julie // Apr 11, 2008 at 9:00 am
What a beautiful and truly amazing story, thank you for allowing me to be part of this. I am so impressed by both of you; your strength, generosity and determination are truly awe-inspiring. I know I am not alone when I say wish nothing but good health and much happiness to you both, you truly deserve it!
4 Connee // Apr 11, 2008 at 12:22 pm
Beth,
I have tears in my eyes as I read and reflect upon what you have written. I am in such awe, and I feel so truly grateful and blessed, to have the opportunity to witness what you have done and how you have done it. Christ teaches us to give of ourselves, and nothing more exemplifies that than the gift of a part of your own body. And to do it with such grace, such faith, and such selflessness is truly inspiring… to me and to many. Thank you from the bottom of my heart, not just for this gift of life, but for this lesson.
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