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@loribmt

Welcome, @bigjoek! Your beautiful, eloquent poem moved me to tears as I’m sure it will for others who have been gifted with a second chance at life. We don’t often get the opportunity for a do-over and to re-set our priorities. Every day, every moment is a gift to be treasured. Thank you so much for sharing with us.

I hope you’ll be a regular contributor to the transplant group. There are many here who have had liver transplants and your survival story of 32 years will be so inspiring to them and for others who are waiting to have a transplant. Congratulations on such a successful procedure!

This conversation is a good place to start sharing if you’d like:
Liver transplant - Let's support each other
https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/liver-support-group/

I also see you posted about attending the transplant picnic. Have you attended in the past?

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Replies to "Welcome, @bigjoek! Your beautiful, eloquent poem moved me to tears as I’m sure it will for..."

My entire life post transplant has been dedicated to giving back, and supporting those who follow the path I had to walk. When I was given my second chance, there was no internet, no support groups, and no mentors. I vowed to do all I could to help others get through their journeys with the support that wasn't always there for me. I met many people, and supported all who needed an encouraging word, a smile, or a hug. I joined transplant support groups on Facebook when I finally connected there, and now am an admin for many many transplant related groups. I also signed up to be a mentor to those who are about to walk the same path, or are on the path and need someone who understands the process, setbacks, and trials of this miracle. I am a very gifted writer, having penned over 300 pieces of poetry, also a singer songwriter, with several organ donor related songs recorded. I am the father of 5 (2 biological 3 adopted post transplant) grandfather to 4, and married to my bride, my support, my life partner for almost 41 years. My two older children were 4 1/2 and 6 when I had my transplant at age 35. I have done much since, Scoutmaster for 10 years, playing in bands, working, promoting organ donation, being a husband, and father, and loving life!
If allowed I would be happy to share a link to one of my donor songs!!
Thank you for the kind words about my poem. I have a page on FB dedicated to my gift of poetry also!