Yvonne’s Challenge

Beth and I have had a number of requests about when “the story” by ABC 13 Medical Reporter Christi Myers would actually be posted.  It aired last night on the local Houston ABC station here in Houston – Channel 13 – so if you’re out of town you won’t find it on your local ABC affiliate.   Here is the link:  http://abclocal.go.com/ktrk/channel?section=news/health&id=5755223

You’ll see a number of stories, and this one is currently the first.  But if you can’t find it immediately – Christi is a prolific reporter – then look for “Ultimate Gift” as you scroll through the list. 

Christi told us today that it got the highest ranking on last night’s news, which is wonderful.  Beth and I agreed to work with Christi with the hope that others may be willing to donate a kidney.  We are so thrilled that it was widely viewed. 

As you know, we believe that our precious friend Beverly Baker, who died in January, made her mark from heaven by putting us together at her funeral.  As I’ve written before, I believe there are no accidents in life and certainly this is evidence yet again that the universe provides.  Bev was with us.  Her business partner, Joe Tondu, wrote me a note that was so poignant:  “One last act of kindness … it absolutely fills my heart with joy to know that you have a future.”  Sandy Huntsinger, Bev’s sister, called both Beth and me today to say the Baker family was happy that Bev played such a big role in our story.  How happy we were to get Sandy’s call … and how tender of her to reach out. 

When I hear from friends, they always ask about Beth, so let me say that she’s doing incredibly well.  In fact, she and David just returned from a fabulous trip in the Bahamas where they swam with the dolphins, something she’s always dreamed of doing.  They had a ball … and what a great get-away for the two of them.  

I had another great report from the hospital today … my numbers are fabulous, and I’m now down to 10mg of prednisone which is wonderful.  As most who know me can attest, I really didn’t need anything to give me more energy or make me more hyper.  So the prednisone made me a tad ridiculous.  Once I get to 5mg, I’m going to start lobbying for some more reductions.  Fingers crossed!

Tonight, this is where we sign-off.  Mission accomplished.  I plan to keep the blog up as a reference site for anyone who faces their own transplant challenge or other difficult health issue.  And I assure you I will return to it from time to time simply to remember the lessons I’ve experienced:   The kindness of strangers, the overwhelming gratitude, the importance of community, remembering goodness from so many, the experience of two Good Fridays this Easter season … the “Gang of Five” who made personal sacrifices to be here … seeing Buddy Donaldson and David Looney together, sharing stories and humor. 

And I want to make one final public tribute to Beth Looney, the angel, the brave woman, the great mom and wonderful wife who did provide the “Ultimate Gift.”   I love you, Sista Girl!

Little miracles – and often really big ones – happen every day.  We’re evidence of that one for sure.  Thanks to all of you who have created your own miracles for Beth and me.  The love that has surrounded us has been an incredible part of the healing process, and we thank you.  We both agree that the experience has left an indelible mark in our hearts, and we are forever changed. 

Love to all of you … we keep you in our hearts.

Beth and Yvonne