Let me introduce myself........

[ProudMommyDebbie]

(((crettman1)))

Many Hugs to you, Welcome to our family on the internet.

We are here for you and understand the journey you are having of the unknown.

[cassandravance]

Hi -

I am new to this - not only this site but also recognizing that I may need a support group - maybe I always "believed" I was strong enough to deal with all that is happening.

I am married to a man who received a bi-lateral lung transplant over 20 years ago. Ten years ago he suffered, or really survived a brain hemorrhage and then went into renal failure. After a year of dialysis I donated my left kidney to him.

We also own a business.... and in 2008 we expanded and took on alot more responsibilities. In January of 2009 Jim came down with shingles. From that point on he has never really rebounded. All of 2009 and 2010 he was plagued with digestive issues. And since February of this year he has been is a steady decline. Despite weekly visits to numerous doctors no one can find anything monumentally wrong. The general consensus is that he really is a living legend - most lung transplant recipients are blessed to live 5 or 10 years and he is entering 21 years. His body is wearing out.

He now has bad arthritis from years of anti-rejection meds. He is depressed too. So am I. At first I thought he was just losing interest in all that we have - the business, our dogs, me. Now as I see him declining I realize he just feels crappy all the time.

I feel like I am in limbo - waiting - for him to get better (which I am starting to realize is likely not going to happen) or get worse. Some days I think it would be better for him to pass (then my I feel so sad and guilty for feeling this) - he was so active and now his life is spent in bed or on the couch.

Sorry to vent - just have a hope that you all will understand.

Cassandra

[donita]

(((((Cassandra)))))

Welcome to your new WS family. I'm sorry that you are feeling so overwhelmed.

I do know how it feels to beat the odds and then the poor body just wears out gradually.

We are here for you anytime of day or night. Come and cry or vent as needed.

Since I have dealt with some of the lung stuff, you can also PM me anytime.

[adelle]

I echo the others who have greeted you with a big Welcome!!

[Dorothy Saunders]

Welcome, Cassandra. I am glad that you've found us because you do need support.
My IS(ill spouse) is also a living legend in terms of longevity. Like you, I think he is tired and his body is wearing out. My IS is finally on antidepressants which help somewhat, but of course can't change the medical reality.
You've found a wonderful haven of very caring and wise people. Please drop by here any time.

[LarryB]

(((Cassandra)))

Sorry your IS is 'tired' - we all get 'tired' fropm the long fight. Love the name Cassandra!

I know you will find support and understanding here. It has saved me!

Post often - you will make fast friends.

Larry

[qtrhrsemom]

Welcome to the family, Cassandra. So sorry you need us, but definitely happy you found us.

We all understand what you're going through. My IS is in a body that is slowly failing as well. It's a hard thing to watch.

Please come back often!!

[ann.nanun]

Welcome, Crettman!