I have reached another milestone. Transplant lists have been a hot topic in the news lately. There are plenty of people waiting for the gift of life. As of today, yours truly has been waiting for a lung transplant for THREE YEARS!
It’s been at least three years since I’ve been sick enough to need this gift. When my lung functions were as bad as they had ever been, there was no way I thought the wait would be this long. There was no way I thought I would make it this long without a transplant. I hope I don’t sound like a broken record.
But I’m still here. Challenges keep coming my way. Life keeps showing me new perspectives. I’m happy. My spirits are good. Things will get better.
Now I’m heading out to do something awesome!
Nikki's New Lungs 
1096 days, 156 weeks and one amazing and very patient lady. Nikki has been waiting too for a double lung transplant. She needs a perfect fit for her gift. She also knows too well the agonizing wait. She wants to be untethered from her oxygen tank, her 5 hours of treatments and her home IV therapy. She wants to run, make more memories and help others too without panting and coughing. So many people love this lady. Most of us have signed to be organ donors(I have). We know this gift means loss for a family. Hopefully more families make the choice to donate their loved ones organs and tissues. There is a whole slew of people waiting to hear the good news that Nikki has received her gift. We wait with you and support you!
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Such nice words Mary, thanks you!
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Nikki, you never cease to amaze me with your positive attitude! As always, thinking of you and hoping you receive your gift soon.
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Thanks you Becky!
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I waited nearly three years for a heart. When you receive your gift, the wait will be forgotten. Keep your head up, God has a plan for you.
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I’m excited for the day I “forget” about the wait! Glad to know you received a heart, I wish you continued success. Thank you.
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Tomorrow will mark the eleven year anniversary when I received the greatest gift of my heart and kidney, and one day it will be you! John is absolutely right, the wait will be forgotten. Your gift is coming, just keep your positive attitude!
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Congratulations, eleven years! Thank you so much for sharing your inspiring words.
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It has been a very long year but somehow you keep being such a strong person. You have not been sitting home feeling sorry for yourself and have used the time to work so hard to let people know about organ transplant. I know that there is a reason for this long wait but those perfect lungs will come.
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Thanks you mom
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Nikki, I felt the same way when I was waiting (over 4 years). My wonderful doctor kept telling me the right lungs at the right time. I too tried to make every day count – they are all precious. toward the end though, after having been called many times, and being disappointed, I thought that it would never happen. But it did, I am thankful for my gift because my doctor was right – I did get the right lungs at the right time. I just had my 7 year anniversary. It’s not a “walk in the park”, but it beats the heck out of the alternative. Personally I was kind of upset with the family that is asking for an “exception” – there are so many people out there that are just as sick waiting for lungs. Just keep your positive attitude. I will happen.
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I love how you are seven years post transplant, Congratz! Thanks you for the encouraging words.
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Nikki, You amaze and inspire me every day. Thank you for always smiling and embracing each moment. I look forward to the celebration we will have after you receive your transplant.
Susan
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Thank you Susan
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Nikki, I hope you realize just how many people stay updated by your blogs. As hard as it is, keep your positive attitude on your sleeve for everyone to see. Although my wait was half as long as yours I remember wondering if I could make it another day. Staying positive works both ways for others and for you. When the lungs arrive you will know the challenging wait was worth while. You are in my prayers and I look to the near future to read the blog that says you finally received the life saving and life improving gift.
Dave
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Thank you so much Dave. I hope you are doing well. I always enjoy talking with you, would be nice to run into you 🙂
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Nikki girl…. you are awesome….. unbelievable. Your inspiration helps others. Keep the faith; good things will happen
love
richie
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Thank you so much Richie! Travis and I would love to see both you and Mickey soon!
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Nikki, I have never really gotten to know you on real personal level, but I see you as one of the bravest people I know. You always seem to see positive in your life and what is has given you. I only wish you the best. You have a wonderful and caring support system. Love to you.
Julie McAlister (Terch)
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Julie, Thank you so much for the kind words.
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Things will get better indeed. Hang in there Nikki.
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Thanks Jeff! I’m hangin 🙂
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Nik you continue to inspire and amaze those around you with your positive attitude and perseverence. We love you and pray for your perfect lungs to arrive. xoxo
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Thank you Annie, I love you guys too!
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