Hi, @cindysummit.

Thank you. Although I initially was nervous about sharing my story, I am glad that I was able to do so. Each time I share it, it's looking at my experiences through the rear view mirror; and I just love, love, love how you said: "I do it to remember, and to see growth. It is here that I find joy, my hope, and especially a whole lot of gratitude." @cindysummit, my sentiments exactly!

I thought Maisha was the perfect name for my new kidney because, before the transplant, I felt as if my life was fading away. But Maisha has given me an infusion of life...physically, mentally, and emotionally.

I must admit that it took me a while to finally realize that we are much more than our illnesses. After the transplant, it was all about the kidney. I obsessed over seemingly everything concerning my kidney, 24/7 365. Even when my transplant team told me I no longer needed to check and record various stats every day, I still checked and recorded...all day, every day. Thankfully, I FINALLY learned how to unblur the lines and make a distinction between my kidney and me...and begin to live!

Thanks again for your post and kind words. I appreciate it very much. Wishing you all the best!