At the Coldplay concertIt was one year ago when Barbie and I left for Rochester MN and the Mayo Clinic and that was when we began recording our journey of hope on this website. What a journey it has been, I have described it as a roller-coaster ride; in reality, sometimes it feels more like a space shuttle ride, major ups and major downs. Fortunately, right now is a major up. Three weeks ago lying in bed most of the day, I dreamt of the time when I could stand for 5 minutes without having to sit down, I imagined sitting down at Sizzler and eating the whole steak and baked potato, (which I did today) I couldn't imagine that day ever coming, but we held onto hope and all of your prayers. I am sitting at work now writing this and it feels wonderful to be back. My excellent physicians figured out that it was indeed a virus and put me on the appropriate drug and I got better. I was at a health score in the 60's for weeks, today would be an 82, despite the hiccups from the Decradron.
Tuesday was magnificent. We sat under the stars with a slight breeze and experienced Coldplay once again. I am always transported by their music since it is the soundtrack to the last year of my life, especially the songs "Death and all his friends" and "Viva la Vida" Being there with Barbie and our friends Frank and Jennifer Penney was a life affirming experience. Yesterday we went with Caitlin and Rebecca to see Harry Potter and had a great time.
At the year anniversary of writing this blog I reflect on the impact that it has had on my life. When our close friend, Steve Hargadon, set it up for us the night before we left home, we had no idea how transforming this ability to share our lives would be. Initially I thought it would just serve to inform friends and family of our whereabouts and progress; but it grew and developed into something bigger than I could have imagined. I know it has helped other people who have learned from our experiences, but I never expected the transformative and therapeutic effect that it has had on me. There is great power in sharing our personal story. It allows others the courage to share theirs and thereby opens a critical dialogue that can engender social healing and dispel the sense of isolation. All that is required is uncensored and non-judgemental honesty. Your comments, concern and prayers are the wings that have carried us. My gratitude can never be properly conveyed; but fills me with hope every day. Thank You for your continued compassion and support. We made it through the first year.
Kevin
Tuesday was magnificent. We sat under the stars with a slight breeze and experienced Coldplay once again. I am always transported by their music since it is the soundtrack to the last year of my life, especially the songs "Death and all his friends" and "Viva la Vida" Being there with Barbie and our friends Frank and Jennifer Penney was a life affirming experience. Yesterday we went with Caitlin and Rebecca to see Harry Potter and had a great time.
At the year anniversary of writing this blog I reflect on the impact that it has had on my life. When our close friend, Steve Hargadon, set it up for us the night before we left home, we had no idea how transforming this ability to share our lives would be. Initially I thought it would just serve to inform friends and family of our whereabouts and progress; but it grew and developed into something bigger than I could have imagined. I know it has helped other people who have learned from our experiences, but I never expected the transformative and therapeutic effect that it has had on me. There is great power in sharing our personal story. It allows others the courage to share theirs and thereby opens a critical dialogue that can engender social healing and dispel the sense of isolation. All that is required is uncensored and non-judgemental honesty. Your comments, concern and prayers are the wings that have carried us. My gratitude can never be properly conveyed; but fills me with hope every day. Thank You for your continued compassion and support. We made it through the first year.
Kevin
I'm seeing a theme here
6 comments:
What a wonderful anniversary message! I'm so happy for you that you have regained some good health! Every day is a gift. I only hope that when my heart transplant occurs that I will possess half the grace that you have shown. Rock on, Kevin and Barbie!!!
Kent Johnson
I love the shirts! I am so glad that you are feeling better and that you once again were able to enjoy Coldplay live. Dan is going to crack up when I show him the pictures of the scooters tonight. That's awesome!
The following is a message from Elena:
mm79 87999799999999999999999999999999999999999999999999999999999999999999999999999999999999999999999 9 97999799797yiriiiiiyiirioiy op
I asked her if she would like to write something for Uncle Kevin and she said, "For my baby or for the big one?" :)
You both look great!!! Love you guys! We're so grateful you are a part of our lives! (I'm seeing a theme here...exclamation points!!!)
Kevin & Barbie ~ I did not know about your web page until a few months after it started. After I saw you at Kasier Santa Clara that evening & learned of it I find myself checking it daily just to see if something new has been written. It has made me feel very close to you even though we are somewhat far apart.
I am so happy you are feeling better. And a Coldplay concert, what a great way to celebrate!!
Love you to both!!
Patty
So you said you are seeing a theme? Does that mean you have felt good for more than 3 days? If so, that's awesome!
I love the shirts too and I'm glad you've started this as well, it's so neat to read everything you are going through, it helps all of "us" feel like we are right there with you. Thank you for sharing.
We love you!
Brooke
Sounds like you had a great time at the concert... I'm noticing your shirts! Your blog has been wonderful to read and keep up with you and your family!
love the scooters! :)
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