For anyone facing an Organ Transplant:

Post date: Apr 5, 2011 12:19:54 PM

"Never give up, never, never give up."

- Winston Churchill

You will face adversity. Hmmmm….adversity doesn’t seem to adequately describe the experience. “Walking through the depths hell”? Yup. That’s about it.

Now, I don’t want to scare away any of you parents that are reading this site because your child is facing something similar. But transplant isn’t for the weak or faint of heart. It is not easy and you must be strong. But you will get through it. Because you have no choice but to get through it.

I wasn’t always what you would call strong. No, that strength is actually borrowed. From God.

No, seriously.

It’s not my strength.

He lets me borrow some of His strength from time to time. And I know that he's got plenty of strength to spare.

Psalms, Chapter 23 (2-6)

The LORD is my shepherd; there is nothing I lack.

In green pastures you let me graze; to safe waters you lead me; you restore my strength. You guide me along the right path for the sake of your name.

Even when I walk through a dark valley, I fear no harm for you are at my side; your rod and staff give me courage. You set a table before me as my enemies watch; You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.

Only goodness and love will pursue me all the days of my life; I will dwell in the house of the LORD for years to come.

April is National Organ Donation Month. My posts this month will be more frequent and will center on this theme. Also, this month, I will roll out a new Organ Donation Resource Tool at www.nataliebear.com . It’s not ready yet, but when it is, you’ll see it on the toolbar at the right.

Some things to keep in mind if your child is facing a transplant:

1. Some kids have complications. Others don’t. I don’t know why.

2. The old saying, “God doesn’t give you more than you can handle.” Is 100% true. Even though you may not know it at the time.

3. Some people will disappoint you.

4. Some people will distance themselves from you.

5. Even family. You will have more than enough things to keep your mind busy while all this is going on. My advice, don't let their issues become your issues. They either want to be part of your life, or they don't. And this is your life. You can't seperate the good from the bad. If they want you in good times, they must be willing to stick around for the bad ones too.

6. Some people, friends, family, etc. will come out of the woodwork, totally surprising you and become your strongest friends and advocates. Lean on them. God put them into your life for a reason.

7. If people offer help – take them up on it!

8. If people don’t offer help, and you need it, ask them anyway.

9. You will witness miracles, be prepared.

10. You will learn, albeit the hard way, what really matters.

11. Did I mention miracles?

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