LIFE ADVENTURES AND JOURNEYS Archives

The unexpected is the norm in Transplant World

January 10, 2015 By Tam Warner 5 Comments

Walking into the new Clements UT Southwestern University Hospital today felt like going back in time. Back in time to a nicer, state of the art hospital. I’d rather not be here, though.

Ut Southwestern's new Clements University Hospital — Ut Southwestern’s new Clements University Hospital

Randy is here because he has been running fever every morning this week. He has a fever, he chills, he takes tylenol, he’s fine but lethargic. We were supposed to leave for Cozumel on Saturday…we know that is not happening. At least not now.

They are running a series of tests on him: CT scan of his lungs, and a Bronchoscopy, which is an outpatient surgery. They will take a few samples of his lung tissue. I’m waiting.

I’m remembering the weeks and months I waited at the old hospital, knowing that life will henceforth throw us unexpected events. UT Southwestern is the place to be, though, if you need a transplant, especially a lung transplant. The doctors and nurses on the transplant team are truly exceptional. I heard about another amazing advance in transplant surgery from the doc who is performing the bronchoscopy. He came to UT from the Cleveland Clinic, also a top rated heart and lung transplant institution. Whether you are pre transplant or post transplant, UT Southwestern excels in their treatment of patients. The new technology will create “breathing lungs” for transplantation. 80% of harvested lungs are unusable due to many different factors, inflammation, injury, poor condition. There is a new device in which the lungs alone can be placed, and a determination as to whether or not they can be used is made after the lungs have had time to recover and other therapies have been used. This will double or triple the lungs available for transplant! UT Southwestern will receive this device very soon. UCLA has already used it, check this out! This is very exciting news! Here’s a video from the U of MN explaining the process.

Randy has had a remarkable recovery. September 10, 2013 was the date of his transplant, but he had been in the hospital, in critical condition for almost 6 weeks by then. He spent almost two weeks on ECMO, a life support system which kept him alive until lungs were found. When he woke up with lungs, he could barely lift a finger because every muscle in his body had atrophied. Amazing how fast that can happen. He remained in the hospital until the end of October, and even when he came home he was unable to walk. 16 months later he is working out every day again, and taking daily walks. We’ve taken a few trips together during 2014, and he has just continued to go up, up, up. He was able to attend his 40th high school reunion in October!

Not every moment has been easy or pleasant though. Not by a long shot. As anyone knows who has had a long recovery from a surgery, it is a tough road back. Medication side effects, an acute rejection episode, and now this…whatever this is. Overall, everything has gone well.

I just heard the good news that his bronchoscopy looks clear, they are prescribing antibiotics, and we just have to wait a few days for him to feel better. I’m headed to Cozumel with our friends Greg and Lauri tomorrow, carrying televisions Randy is out buying right now. Yes, he is feeling better with the antibiotics. We are hoping he can join us in a few days. I guess I’ll pack now.

Randy’s first trip to Cozumel since his transplant!

January 6, 2015 By Tam Warner 14 Comments

Randy and I getting ready to swim with the whale sharks! See it just behind me?

Yes, Randy has been given the OK to travel to Cozumel and to scuba dive! We have planned a two week trip to Cozumel, one week with friends, and one week just the two of us. I have been so excited….but now, I’m feeling a bit nervous. I suppose it is natural to feel this way…with everything we’ve been through, every trip seems risky. However, this is Mexico, and there are many who have advised Randy not to go (family members). The transplant team has given their blessing, and the transplant coordinator even suggested she come along to make sure Randy is well. Of course, she was joking.

Mexico has its risks, but we’ve been going to Cozumel for almost 30 years. Our house has filtered water, air conditioning, and is not in town, but on the water. People still picture Mexico as third world, and in most places it is. Cozumel’s amenities have improved so dramatically that it is nearly as comfortable as our house here. Nearly.

I’ve gone out and bought him a brand new regulator, new booties, new snorkel and new mask. I just think it best if he has new, clean items. I have citronella and sunscreen (biodegradable of course). January is the dry season, but mosquitoes might still be around, so he should be wearing insect repellent. As you can probably tell, I’m a little nervous.

Being a bit nervous should help keep him well, though. I’ll certainly be vigilant about the food we buy and eat. We know well the restaurants that are absolutely no problem. Actually, Cozumel is not known for tourista these days, it has become more and more careful about food, water and service due to its dependence on tourism.

Dinner out with the "kids" — Dinner out with the “kids”

So, we will be off to Cozumel in 5 days, and Randy is very much looking forward to it. Our home there has played a very large role in our lives, and in the lives of our children and their friends. Since he’s been ill I’ve had the house painted and leaks repaired, and new furniture put into place. I am hoping very much he likes all the changes, but most of all I hope for a quiet, lovely, healing time for him, and for us.

5 days!

Oh, and we also lease/rent our home! Check it out at www.vrbo.com/368692!

We'll soon be there! — We’ll soon be there!

The Best of 2014

January 1, 2015 By Tam Warner 6 Comments

The last few years have been, for me, at least, a perfect storm. Circumstances have conspired to create the most challenging years of my life. So much so, that there have been times I have almost had to laugh at the continuing onslaught. Although 2014 has been a year of challenge, there have been moments of joy and signs of better times coming. What we learn during the bad times is that there can be no light without the dark, no true happiness without deepest sorrow. As trite as that sounds, it is the truth. I have high hopes for 2015, and plan to do my best in continuing cultivation of a positive, and optimistic, outlook. For now, I wish to share with you the best moments of 2014, it has certainly been one hell of a year!

Randy’s remarkable recovery from a double lung transplant in September 2013 continues! The story is HERE.

In January 2014, friends from around the country came to celebrate Randy's recovery. — In January 2014, friends of Randy’s from around the country came to celebrate Randy’s incredible continuing recovery from a double lung transplant, September 2013.

My cousin Kathy and I took a quick trip to the Exumas to swim with feral swimming pigs!

I took a dive trip to Thailand, and was joined by my daughter! It was an incredible trip for us both.

Engagement! My son, Wes, and his fiance, Carisa, with their animal family!

Randy’s first trip out of Dallas since his transplant, we headed to the Texas Hill Country.

In June of 2014 Randy and I took a glorious drive on the Pacific Coast Highway, all the way north to Shelter Cove, CA. Then we met up with friends in Tahoe. This trip really pushed Randy to a whole new level in his recovery. Since then, he has gone up, up, up.

Incredible view from the hills of Santa Barbara

spending a day with my niece and her children in Santa Barbara

Big Sur's elephant seals! — Big Sur’s elephant seals!

and Lake Tahoe with friends we hadn’t seen in 15 years!

t 14 jill don tam ran — Enjoying good friends.

t 14 emerald bay — Emerald Bay, Lake Tahoe, has to be one of the most beautiful spots on the face of the planet.

I had a chance to go to Cozumel in August, and met up with an old friend I volunteered with in Mozambique, Leslie. Of course, she’s young enough to be my daughter, and many people thought shewas! A couple of my yoga buddies came along as well!

In August, my daughter, Alexandra, became engaged to be married! She and her fiance, Mike, plan on an October 2015 wedding.

Then, in September, I went on a volunteer science expedition with Marine Megafauna Foundation. Off the coast of Ecuador 3 currents converge at a small island called Isla de la Plata, and with those currents come Giant Manta Rays and other pelagic sea life. I volunteered to dive and photograph the animals. It was a very physically demanding trip, but I loved every minute.

OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA — The wonder of these graceful, beautiful animals is beyond words.

Meeting up with Marine Megafauna and volunteers, some of whom I’d been with in Africa.

Then, a one year “Re-Birthday” celebration for Randy….one year post double lung transplant. An important milestone, and just the first of many I know he will reach!

Next, a wedding and Randy’s 40th High School Reunion. What an incredible night it was, we were all so thankful that he was able to be there.

I visited my family and friends in Ohio in October, which was wonderful, and I even went on a hayride with my sistah Holly’s granddaughter, Becca. Then, off to Kentucky for my cousin Brittane’s wedding!

I hadn't seen an Ohio autumn in 20 years, at least! — I hadn’t seen an Ohio autumn in 20 years, at least!

High school friends meeting for a great dinner!

My daughter, Ally, was Brittane's Maid of Honor — My daughter, Ally, was Brittane’s Maid of Honor, doing the Cotton Eyed Joe!

My cousin Lisa and her daughter Brittane

My son performed the music at the wedding.

A quick, and successful, trip to Vegas!

Then, time spent with family and friends during the holidays.

Ally and Carisa with their dogs at the Turkey Trot 5K

xmas 14 tam bodie sofia — Watching Lyn’s grandchildren opening gifts.

Poker for Christmas, Mintons and Greenbergs — Poker on Christmas Eve with the Mintons and Greenbergs

I do believe the signs for 2015 are looking good! Two weddings coming up should give us plenty to celebrate!

Happy New Year to you and yours! Let’s all look forward with joy.

Philanthropy: 5 Worthy Organizations Who Need Your Help!

December 28, 2014 By Tam Warner 14 Comments

These organizations need you! And, hey, just before the end of 2014, which means you can write them off your taxes! These 5 groups, foundations, organizations, are always on my Giving List, and for very good reason!

It is thrilling to go on an MMF Expedition as a volunteer!

1. Marine Megafauna Foundation: “MMF specifically focuses on the research and conservation of threatened marine megafauna species. ‘Marine Megafauna’ are large marine species such as sharks, rays, marine mammals and turtles. These animals are key components of marine ecosystems but, as they are long-lived and have low reproductive rates, their populations are usually the first to be reduced by human pressures. Fortunately, they are also among the most charismatic animals on the planet and engender a high degree of public interest in their biology and conservation, making them useful ambassadors for the whole marine environment”. Adopt a Manta Ray or a Whale Shark! Or give in general, for their research. My favorite way to give? Participate in one of their many “expeditions” and do citizen science! I went to Ecuador this year with MMF and it was such a privilege to participate in their Manta Ray Research! Go here to donate! Join me in becoming a MMF Guardian, or adopt/sponsor an animal…there are many ways to support this group!

Genesis Shelter Donation for the Holidays

2. Give to a Women’s Shelter. I give yearly to Genesis Women’s Shelter in Dallas, Tx. Help support quality safety and support to battered women and their children, whatever your location! There are shelters everywhere who need your help.

3. University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center’s Heart and Lung Transplant Clinic. Our family certainly supports this group of world renowned Doctors and Nurses. My husband benefited from their expertise and world class facilities…he had a double lung transplant in September 2013. They saved his life. I cannot say enough about how incredible UT Southwestern is, they are certainly deserving of giving to support their research.

4. UN World Food Progam: From projects around the world to supporting school lunch programs, the UN’s WFP is attempting to eliminate hunger for the world’s children. A very worthy cause and a very hard fight. We can all help!

5. World Wildlife Fund: WWF works for conservation of our Endangered Species. Did you know we are down to 5 Rare White Rhinos in the entire world? Help fight extinction for these animals…which is being caused by humans. The list goes on and on…there are many people out there who are dedicated to saving lives, human and non-human. Give a little and get a tax break….but mostly give because only Giving (in whatever form you can or want) will change the world.

Count Your Blessings Instead of Sheep

November 26, 2014 By Tam Warner 4 Comments

Rosemary Clooney and Bing Crosby from White Christmas

Do you remember Rosemary Clooney? Yes, George Clooney’s aunt and famous singer from the 40s 50s 60s era. In White Christmas, Bing Crosby sings to her, “if you’re troubled and you can’t sleep, count your blessings instead of sheep.” I have so many blessings to count, I really do not know where to begin.

Lao-Tzu says that a journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. I don’t know how many steps our family has taken since August 2013, but I’m sure it has been more than a thousand miles. Last August, my husband of 33 years, Randy, was rushed to the hospital with respiratory distress, and to make a very long story short (the long story is in the category, LUNG TRANSPLANT, an Unexpected Journey, go to the first post, you’ll see the most recent) he spent 2 weeks on life support, followed by a miraculous double lung transplant.

The blessing of lungs for transplant is always bittersweet…yes, someone died in order to give Randy life. That person, unknown to us, saved several lives. While Randy was having the double lung transplant, the other operating rooms were busy transplanting his/her heart, kidneys, and liver. It is almost incomprehensible that Randy survived. At the time I never doubted that he would. A year later, I am much more familiar with the odds and the truths of transplant. It is nothing short of a miracle that he is here right now.

There are so many people who love him. His friends rallied immediately, and stayed in touch, visiting, phoning, emailing, texting. Our friends sent meals, they sat with me in the hospital, they prayed for Randy, and I felt their presence in our lives every moment. During those dark days, I never felt alone. You all know who you are, but do you know how much I love you? How much I appreciate everything you did? I felt the collective wishes and prayers of the people in our lives, and although I can’t say I know what lies beyond this existence, I can say with confidence that something does. Is it energy? God? Love? Goodness? I don’t know, but I know it exists. I felt it in the days surrounding his life saving surgery.

The nurses, doctors, and medical professionals at UT Southwestern are miracle makers. Beyond the technical medical abilities and technologies, they provided a steady, calm demeanor, much needed at the time. If you are looking for a worthy cause, the UT Southwestern Medical Center Annual Fund is going on right now. The future of scientific research depends upon the philanthropy of the public. I would certainly never have guessed we would ever need the UT Southwestern Heart and Lung Transplant Team!

My children were devastated. I am so grateful they had significant others to support them. Those significant others will grow our family in 2015: there will be two weddings in our family! We look forward to celebrating with them and with their families. 2015 will be a year of joy, and believe me, a year of joy is very welcome! Bring it on.

One year ago tomorrow, Randy took his first step alone since his ordeal, without a walker or any supports. Today he is walking, working out every day, and feeling great. How fortunate, how lucky can one family be? The depth of my gratitude is bottomless.

“So when I’m troubled, and I can’t sleep, I count my blessings instead of sheep. I fall asleep, counting my blessings.”

From my family to yours: Happy Holidays!

I wish you and yours a happy Thanksgiving, filled with gratitude and love!

Chicago is my kind of town!

October 8, 2014 By Tam Warner 21 Comments

As a native midwesterner, I have to say I LOVE Chicago. What a great city! Fabulous night life, restaurants, art, theater, parks, lake…and so on and so forth. Chicago is a bit different from the other large, popular US cities like New York, Boston, San Francisco….because it is down to earth, and accessible. One doesn’t feel that one cannot drive downtown, one doesn’t fear snobbery (not much, anyway), and anyone on the street will be happy to help. Chicago is the midwestern version of “the big city”. As a midwestern girl (as the Beach Boys would sing) I appreciate frankness with no airs.

My husband and I had a dual purpose in visiting Chicago last week. One of our friends had a daughter getting married at the Westin River North (lovely view of the river!) and Randy had his 40 year high school reunion in La Grange, where he grew up. As a bonus, my hairdresser, Eric, whom I have known since 1990, just moved to Chicago and it was lovely to have dinner and then lunch with him. Eric knows his way around Chicago, and took us to the most wonderful restaurants I’ve ever been to in Chicago. First, he took Randy and I and another (reunion) couple to an Italian eatery called Topo Gigios. Randy and his lifelong friend Murph have been eating and drinking in Chicago for many years, but Murph has decided that Topo Gigios is his new favorite Chicago restaurant. That means it is really good! Strange name, I thought, until my Baby Boomer friends (older baby boomers, I’m on the tail end) informed me that Topo Gigio is a cartoon character who was often on the Ed Sullivan Show. I’ve seen reruns of Ed, but I have no memory of the real show back in the 50’s or 60’s. Well, the mouse character is in the restaurant, and as long as he can cook fine Italian cuisine, I love him!

The next delicious venue was Siena Tavern. Siena Tavern is a contemporary establishment, with modern decor and reservation only seating, even at lunch! Eric and I had lunch at the bar, which was actually fun as we kidded around with the bartenders. The menu changes with the seasons….Eric had Italian ribbon noodles while I enjoyed Mozzarella and walnuts, covered with honey. Sigh. Siena Tavern is having Truffle Tasting through October 12….email [email protected]. Very tasty!

The gang from Lyons Township High School!

The wedding was fabulous, and most of us danced all night. Well, I danced a few times, but many others truly danced the whole time. Randy and I hung out with the Lyons Township High School reunion crowd, and had a great time. The next night was the reunion, and visiting the places of Randy’s childhood. The 40th reunion was quite emotional as Randy was very lucky to be there at all. One year ago, Randy had a double lung transplant and came very close to death. It made the reunion all the more sweeter for us all. (you can read about that journey HERE). I was unable to visit my students in Chicago….next trip!

Well, I will be off on a nostalgic trip of my own soon, as my cousin’s daughter is getting married on October 25 in Kentucky. I’m going to drive up early, stop at the Clinton Presidential Library, check out Hendrix College (did you know I am a college counselor in private practice? Well, I am!), look at Indiana U in Bloomington, and spend time in Ohio with my “sister” (long story…our parents were best friends and we were raised in each other’s pockets…but she is older and she and my older brother tortured me. Which explains a lot about me, actually!

So safe journeys to you, and I will be checking in along the way!

LIFE ADVENTURES AND JOURNEYS

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