Thanks

This is my last couple of days before I get back out in public and before I drive. Everything is going great post-transplant and I have many people to thank for that. I feel like I just won an Oscar, so before the music starts because I am rambling too long let me get these thank you's out.

First, my donor. Unless you have been through this, you cant imagine the gratitude that I have for this person. A year ago, we had never met and now I have a part of her in me, working to keep my alive. She and her family are special people. I know I have said this before, but I am glad we have gotten to know each other, even if it hadnt worked out for me to get a kidney.

The Hospital. Although you never really enjoy a hospital stay, I can say that my stay during my transplant was probably the best stay I have ever had in a hospital. They are truly centered around the patient and their needs. Mad props also to the doctors, nurses and staff that oversaw my transplant and are working to keep me healthy post transplant.

Friends, family and people I dont know. From my hospital stay through now, I have had more calls, cards, emails and visits than I can count. One friend from college drove a couple of hours from a neighboring state just to visit me while I was in the hospital. Letters from people I dont know have made their way to me including my sister's county commissioner 4 hours and another state away. He has never met me but somehow he knew to send me a card (now if he would just return a constituent's call from my sister...). I even got an email from the doctor that performed the first kidney transplant in GA 40 years ago. My parents have spent a couple of days a week with me for the last couple of weeks to help around the house and to take me to the Doctor. All of these have meant a lot to me and my wife.

The Atlanta Thrashers. I met my donor through hockey and the local NHL team found out about our story and have been good to us. One of their players called when we got out of the hospital to check in on us. More stuff is coming but I will wait to give details...

My wife. Obviously when we married 3 years ago, my wife didnt envision that any of this would be part of our daily lives. Even though our lives have been changed and certain plans put on hold, she has been a source of strength to me throughout this entire process. I know it hasnt been easy on her, but I am forever grateful for the strength and love she has shown me.