Donor Letter

December 2010
They say around 9 months post-transplant, you will feel as good as you are going to feel. Let me tell you, I feel great! I am still working on gaining my strength and stamina that I lost from being sick for so long, but I can do things I have never really been able to do before. I am now able to make a bed with clean sheets without becoming so exhausted and almost passing out. I ran past a few houses the other day and didn't feel any pain or want to collapse. I am even able to tolerate this cold weather better. I used to get so cold it took hours to warm up.My hands and feet would be so cold and even my chest would hurt. It would cause my chest pain and my heart rate to become abnormal as it tried to pump more blood to help warm me up. I can not begin to thank you enough! There is a movie called Return to Me. I had seen it before but when it was on the other day I just couldn't sit through it all. It is about a man whose wife passes and he donates her organs. Then the recipient tries to send a letter but has a really difficult time writing it and says "Sending a thank you note.. seems sooooo.... not enough". It isn't. Saying thank you can never truly show how appreciative I am. At the age of 25, I was like an old woman, barely able to get around and always sleeping. Now, I actually feel my age. I am able to hang out with friends, go to church, and even stay awake through an entire movie in the theater. You truly have given me a wonderful second chance at life.

I am originally from southern California and have always been a huge fan of the Rose Parade. When I was in my freshman year of high school, I had the opportunity to walk in the parade with the Band and Color Guard and, while it was an exhausting 7 miles at that time, I was able to do it. Now Donate Life has a float in the parade (they have for a few years). I tried to win a contest to ride on the float and to share my wonderful story, but I did not win. However, I did learn that I could purchase one of the beautiful roses and dedicated it to you. I received a digital certificate, a card and a pin. I had the certificate printed and framed for you. I know that it will never be enough to show my full gratitude but I want you to know that I think of you all daily. I turn 26 tomorrow (Dec 15) and am only able to be healthy for it because of your wonderful generosity.

I have tried for days for the right words to say but I realize there are no "right" words. I am sorry for your loss and am thankful for your generosity. I know it will be difficult, but I hope you have a good holiday season.

With Love,
Katie

P.S. The dedication being places with the rose on the float says,

"In memory of Unknown. I may not know who you are, but you continue to live inside me. Thank you for being a donor and giving me a 2nd chance at life with a healthy heart. To your family, thank you, I'm sorry for your loss!"