Today was my first visit to the kidney transplant office.
I'm sort of numb.
It's a lot/too much information to process and when confronted with situations like that I shut down.
I'm shutting down.
I feel quiet. Small. Lost. Out of my element.
As I sat with the transplant coordinator, who was bubbly and charming, I was often at a loss for words, something that rarely happens. This is all new to me - the procedures, the tests, the vocabulary. I've never had an operation. Never recovered from anasthesia. Never confronted the possibility of being checked so thoroughly.
Her office had a huge wipe board on wall, listing patients and donors, keeping track of where each pair is in the involved pre-operation process.
I'm going to be on that wall.
I only hope I can handle this. Emotionally, psychologically. I remember this inner, low level doubt creeping in before I gave birth - was I strong enough, could I deal with everything it, would everyone be ok?
I'm not a taking chance sort of person, at least not when it comes to physical things. I will never helicopter ski or sky dive or ride a motorcycle. And this feels like jumping off a cliff in a way, without knowing what's down at the bottom.
But, this isn't just about me. Taking a leap into the unknown to help my brother makes all the difference.
you are brave and amazing and i am in awe.
ReplyDeletei salute your courage.
WOW Elissa.....you've certainly made a huge jump in the "grown up decision" category. This is amazing. Wow....what a story. So glad you're sharing it.
ReplyDeleteYou constantly reveal into who you are, and I love you.
ReplyDelete