tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25799250973030892582024-03-14T14:02:07.189-04:00Ok SoloTHE JOURNEY OF AN ALTRUISTIC LIVING KIDNEY DONOR. COME FOLLOW ME.angela (stimpson) cuozzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04409096131820027642noreply@blogger.comBlogger58125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2579925097303089258.post-76318215753762026362012-04-18T06:47:00.001-04:002012-04-18T06:48:47.463-04:00My mentorHi kids. You can read my new post over on 'Pay it Forward', with the Times Union bloggers, <a href="http://blog.timesunion.com/payitforward/my-mentor/4837/" target="_blank">here. </a><br />
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I have chatted about my living kidney donor mentor, <a href="http://simplycara.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Cara Yesawich</a>, in the past here, and felt it was important to include her in my conversation about my donation journey on the Times Union's site. She was a very special presence in my life then, and is still now.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpY7kNbwGLArI1n-Z7ovJvqLmoURoZzJkqmBbQwQQPaGWeEdNgQc_tmfIEcc7IXN2SiPzSlEdcpZ3FosZPGe0AtR-jKAOnHXuse_sOEaYOvjTOZCwV4kdx2fE9i2qCqp4k3NceJLPyQB8/s1600/cara_yesawich.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpY7kNbwGLArI1n-Z7ovJvqLmoURoZzJkqmBbQwQQPaGWeEdNgQc_tmfIEcc7IXN2SiPzSlEdcpZ3FosZPGe0AtR-jKAOnHXuse_sOEaYOvjTOZCwV4kdx2fE9i2qCqp4k3NceJLPyQB8/s320/cara_yesawich.jpg" width="257" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cara Yesawich, my living kidney donor mentor.</td></tr>
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I encourage all prospective donors to reach out to another donor as they embrace their experience. I know I couldn't have done this without her, and I truly believe it can enhance your journey in more ways than one.<br />
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Feel free to <a href="http://www.blogger.com/profile/04409096131820027642" target="_blank">contact me</a> if you should want to find more resources in the community. Having a buddy to hold your hand as you walk through this process can make all the difference in the world.angela (stimpson) cuozzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04409096131820027642noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2579925097303089258.post-43793387099846717142012-04-11T21:14:00.001-04:002012-04-11T21:15:17.313-04:00etsy kidney find<div><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTosueZO3I677G1SB0J6nQ19T9XcwZgm8cKe1z18b9PiYZHisLZW4LCPGesQwt_dosIpKJmeGkMmKONX4o8Y1nmafWx_zB3PRF8y7OmnMrTGeagODPe7wlRw5l6CEeyCmV2MObkvYVwEo/s1600/kidney+necklace.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTosueZO3I677G1SB0J6nQ19T9XcwZgm8cKe1z18b9PiYZHisLZW4LCPGesQwt_dosIpKJmeGkMmKONX4o8Y1nmafWx_zB3PRF8y7OmnMrTGeagODPe7wlRw5l6CEeyCmV2MObkvYVwEo/s320/kidney+necklace.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">PKD Awareness Double Kidney Pendant Necklace </td></tr>
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<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">Love <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/57895381/pkd-awareness-double-kidney-pendant" target="_blank">this.</a></div><br />
Had to share this piece with everyone. If you're not familiar with <a href="http://www.etsy.com/" target="_blank">etsy</a>, you need to be. I could spend hours on here. I could also spend thousands of dollars on here. Love this site for unique gifts - for me.<br />
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What's even nicer about this piece is that the artist will donate $25 to the <a href="http://www.pkdcure.org/" target="_blank">PKD Foundation</a> for every necklace sold. I'm gonna get me one.angela (stimpson) cuozzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04409096131820027642noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2579925097303089258.post-3571443829417964892012-04-09T13:19:00.000-04:002012-04-09T13:19:24.427-04:00pay it forward: intrigue and informationPlease stop over and see my most recent post at <a href="http://blog.timesunion.com/payitforward/intrigue-and-information/4744/" target="_blank">timesunion.com</a>.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc2Gpr75aCHAA6BwY8suhzXFf-Ae0RfBlQPkhCnpjVKIFCmTG-JE7e7KZ1eJr1UpTFDS2z_QIcFSSbs7vr_YncTr2av_zG8cRAgFtRHKst-TlVScNlbYaLgcQKwJqsgZnWWTgPcmpIWNA/s1600/intrigueinformation.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="296" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc2Gpr75aCHAA6BwY8suhzXFf-Ae0RfBlQPkhCnpjVKIFCmTG-JE7e7KZ1eJr1UpTFDS2z_QIcFSSbs7vr_YncTr2av_zG8cRAgFtRHKst-TlVScNlbYaLgcQKwJqsgZnWWTgPcmpIWNA/s400/intrigueinformation.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
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I'm sharing my journey with readers on the 'Pay it Forward' blog, where you can also read about some great people doing some great things. <a href="http://blog.timesunion.com/payitforward/welcome-to-pay-it-forward-2/9/" target="_blank">Mary Kenney</a> has been generous enough to let me share some of the real estate there, and I'm excited about this opportunity.<br />
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Thanks, Mary!angela (stimpson) cuozzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04409096131820027642noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2579925097303089258.post-37000171122744728312012-04-03T15:18:00.001-04:002012-04-03T15:19:47.468-04:00pay it forwardI'm pleased as punch to announce my presence on the <a href="http://blog.timesunion.com/payitforward/" target="_blank">timesunion.com's 'Pay it Forward' blog!</a><br />
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I have been an avid reader/viewer/snooper of the <a href="http://blog.timesunion.com/" target="_blank">Times Union's (TU) blogs</a> for many years now and never really thought that someday I would be a contributor. This past summer, I was contacted by the TU to contribute to their many bloggers online. I was up to my elbows in <strike>martinis</strike> alligators, and knew I didn't have time to dedicate to more work. Times have changed, and when they contacted me again in early 2012, I decided this was something that I not only wanted to do, but needed to do.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3xaKTD3s65BdaVdB771y_fGs9jtFP0Fa-Sq4vv2yHHT9QdTOwH6qQ87w3w4qdJGJOSb06oB0_NK5i4ykwBfK5Yqj06FwAaz-oFItBozsunYs4rnBc_CVoBdVdDeU_JVjSjid8W5ZtG90/s1600/blog-shot2.pg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="254" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3xaKTD3s65BdaVdB771y_fGs9jtFP0Fa-Sq4vv2yHHT9QdTOwH6qQ87w3w4qdJGJOSb06oB0_NK5i4ykwBfK5Yqj06FwAaz-oFItBozsunYs4rnBc_CVoBdVdDeU_JVjSjid8W5ZtG90/s320/blog-shot2.pg.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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I will be joining <a href="http://blog.timesunion.com/payitforward/welcome-to-pay-it-forward-2/9/" target="_blank">Mary Kenney,</a> on 'Pay it Forward', where I will share my story about my donation, along with some other sarcastic commentary I feel I need to vent weekly to those that are bored enough to visit. Mary and I share the same philosophy, the same cravings for margaritas, and a helluva head of hair. She's the total package and I'm blessed to have made this connection with someone so special. Plus, she's smart. I love smart people.<br />
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So, give us a try and tune in often to see what kind of goodness and genuine concern we can bring to the table.<br />
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My introductory post is up today, <a href="http://blog.timesunion.com/payitforward/sharing-my-life-literally/4638/" target="_blank">stop in and see me! </a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><span class="yshortcuts" id="lw_1333480130_0" style="background-color: #dceeff; border-bottom-color: rgb(54, 99, 136); border-bottom-style: dotted; border-bottom-width: 2px; color: black; cursor: pointer;"></span></span>angela (stimpson) cuozzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04409096131820027642noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2579925097303089258.post-11537533918525389262012-04-01T22:13:00.001-04:002012-04-01T22:15:50.528-04:00harvey mysel needs a kidneyIn April of 2009, I was only in the beginning stages of researching kidney donation. I was having a tough time finding specific information I wanted, and needed, to know. As I mentioned in my <a href="http://oksolo.blogspot.com/2010_06_17_archive.html" target="_blank">first post on this blog</a>, I found a man by the name of Harvey Mysel, on Facebook.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibOx8KPX2-6dQXCcSexcDEdjYmc2Y5gWnWlpJBaH2_GmjKlw03raPc0N398wqSSv08ZVQ9dozOCs9GCdT3f9tB40MNdUni0iN8Pj7z8fBl0eK793EvXCq6bskp5j2o-3MiyDk7VEMmtZ0/s1600/harvey.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibOx8KPX2-6dQXCcSexcDEdjYmc2Y5gWnWlpJBaH2_GmjKlw03raPc0N398wqSSv08ZVQ9dozOCs9GCdT3f9tB40MNdUni0iN8Pj7z8fBl0eK793EvXCq6bskp5j2o-3MiyDk7VEMmtZ0/s320/harvey.jpg" width="241" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Harvey Mysel</td></tr>
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Harvey was the one that I credit for providing me with the much needed information on how to donate a kidney. I am forever grateful for his time and patience. He is a kind soul, and is passionate about his foundation: <a href="http://www.livingkidneydonorsnetwork.org/" target="_blank">The Living Kidney Donors Network.</a><br />
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Harvey needs a kidney. I can't do his story justice, but what I can do is help to advocate for him to find a kidney. Please take a moment to read his story, and understand how you can help Harvey find a donor....<br />
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<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-size: small;">Harvey Mysel – Kidney Transplant Update March 1, 2012</span></b></div><div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="font: 11.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-size: small;">The transplanted kidney I received in 2007 has been damaged as a result of the BK Virus I contracted. While the BK Virus is rare and terribly unfortunate, recent studies show that patients who have had the BK Virus do well when re-transplanted. To read more about the BK Virus go to: <a href="http://www.lkdn.org/Kidney_Graft_Loss_BK_Virus.pdf">www.lkdn.org/Kidney_Graft_Loss_BK_Virus.pdf</a></span></div><div style="font: normal normal normal 11px/normal Helvetica; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="font: 11.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-size: small;">I would be honored if you would serve as an advocate to let others know about my need. To do that you’ll need to know a few key things about being a kidney donor:</span></div><div style="font: 11.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="font: 11.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444;"> We are born with an extra kidney. Studies show that kidney donors live a normal, healthy life with only one kidney and were no more likely to suffer kidney failure. Go to: <a href="http://www.lkdn.org/Long_Term_Effect_Kidney_Donors_Health.pdf">www.lkdn.org/Long_Term_Effect_Kidney_Donors_Health.pdf</a> to read a study from the “New England </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444;">Journal of Medicine” about kidney donors’ health after their transplant. (An interesting fact to realize is 1 in every 750 people are born with one kidney and their life expectancy is the same as someone who is born with 2 kidneys.)</span></span></div><div style="font: 11.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="font: 11.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444;"> As a result of the new anti-rejection drugs, the “matching” of donor/recipient has become much easier. For situations where the donor/recipient are not compatible, “kidney paired exchange” programs allow these donors to be paired and matched with other incompatible pairs. To learn more about the matching process go to: <a href="http://www.lkdn.org/LKDN_Matching.pdf">www.lkdn.org/LKDN_Matching.pdf</a> For more information about </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444;">kidney paired exchanges go to: www.lkdn.org/LKDN_Paired_Exchanges.pdf</span></span></div><div style="font: normal normal normal 11px/normal Helvetica; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="font: 11.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-size: small;"> I’m blood type A, and can receive a kidney from a blood type O or A. Interestingly 85% of the population is one of these 2 blood types. The (+) and the (-) after the blood type is not a factor for kidney transplants. If a donor has an incompatible blood type, a kidney paired exchange program becomes an option.</span></div><div style="font: 11.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="font: 11.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-size: small;"> Organ donors need to be in good health, without high blood pressure, kidney, heart, liver or other major health issues. For more details on donor qualifications go to: <a href="http://www.lkdn.org/who_can_be_living_donor.html">www.lkdn.org/who_can_be_living_donor.html</a></span></div><div style="font: normal normal normal 11px/normal Helvetica; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="font: 11.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-size: small;"> Donating a kidney involves a major surgical procedure, and the donor is usually in the hospital 1- 3 days. The recuperation period is anywhere from 14 - 21 days for those with an office job, and about 6 weeks if the individual’s work entails more physical labor. The majority of the procedures are done laparoscopically, with 3 - 4 small holes for the instruments. A small incision is made to remove the transplanted kidney. Medical expenses relating to the transplant are paid by the recipient’s (my) insurance company (Blue Cross Blue Shield). Donors could be reimbursed for lost wages or travel expenses.</span></div><div style="font: 11.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="font: 11.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-size: small;">If you would like to learn more about the donation process, please contact me and I would be happy to discuss it in detail with you.</span></div><div style="font: 11.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="font: 11.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-size: small;">I am working with Northwestern Memorial Hospital in Chicago. In 2010, they performed 167 living kidney transplants, ranking them as the #2 hospital in the U.S. You could contact their Independent Living Donor Advocate, Jami Hanneman, MSW, LCSW, CCTSW 312-695 0828 who could answer questions (confidentially) and coordinate donor activity.</span></div><div style="font: 11.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="font: 11.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-size: small;">Please feel free to pass this information along to your family members and/or friends. Telling them about my situation will raise awareness and the potential of finding a compatible donor.</span></div><div style="font: 11.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="font: 11.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-size: small;">I greatly appreciate your support and concern.</span></div><div style="font: 11.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><i><br />
</i></span></div><div style="font: 18.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><i>Harvey</i></span></div><div style="font: 18.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><i><br />
</i></span></div><div style="font: 18.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="font: 18.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: small;">I ask that any of you in the donor community with a blog or website to please share Harvey's story. Exposure is critical in increasing the pool of available donors for Harvey, and I can't think of a more worthy recipient.</span></div><div style="font: 18.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="font: 18.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: small;">We love you and pray for you, Harvey.</span></div><div style="font: 18.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: small;"><br />
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</span></div>angela (stimpson) cuozzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04409096131820027642noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2579925097303089258.post-40885699965834916812012-02-19T07:12:00.002-05:002012-02-19T07:13:49.351-05:0060-person chain of transplantsThe National Kidney Registry has facilitated an unprecedented<br />
60-person chain of kidney transplants.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrTPzNO_XCUEG2ITc-bNIAN4fvGf91xI7vYsAB5eZ-9GNyt1MR4p-tTGLlnCUwD8ZM2m-srjUcCng2uBDxiKwnuFgftiuO8PobKvSbuX1WfPJm6fNSzYEYuC8P3n48xbA7cHsZRsJvqi8/s1600/nkr_logo_main.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="47" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrTPzNO_XCUEG2ITc-bNIAN4fvGf91xI7vYsAB5eZ-9GNyt1MR4p-tTGLlnCUwD8ZM2m-srjUcCng2uBDxiKwnuFgftiuO8PobKvSbuX1WfPJm6fNSzYEYuC8P3n48xbA7cHsZRsJvqi8/s400/nkr_logo_main.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
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The New York Times has done a beautiful and thorough piece on this, and I encourage any prospective donor to read the article. Again, another example of how important non-directed donors are in yielding larger numbers of kidney transplants annually.<br />
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<a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2012/02/19/health/lives-forever-linked-through-kidney-transplant-chain-124.html?pagewanted=1&_r=1&hp" target="_blank">Click here</a> to read the article in the New York Times.<br />
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<b>Kudos to Garet Hil and his team at the <a href="http://www.kidneyregistry.org/index.php" target="_blank">National Kidney Registry!</a></b>angela (stimpson) cuozzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04409096131820027642noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2579925097303089258.post-23078748760539829612012-02-17T14:06:00.003-05:002012-02-17T14:18:36.101-05:00national kidney foundation - surveyHola, donors!<br />
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Just received some information regarding a survey available online, for all living donors.<br />
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Please continue reading the global email sent out by the National Kidney Foundation, and consider participating if you want your voice to be heard.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3MAop-B1H6U_KSl0y6-sy9TK7RA3I7KakB_ljz0oQQof5qNErnS_-UTB14Tw0MBhu9HXFJJcVfQTsLHE8T7L9VFbYYz7pqS_08DCm8OZo6xHVOH5LfwK1VNger6xqOXNYFoSJ4PozPjs/s1600/NKF.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="137" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3MAop-B1H6U_KSl0y6-sy9TK7RA3I7KakB_ljz0oQQof5qNErnS_-UTB14Tw0MBhu9HXFJJcVfQTsLHE8T7L9VFbYYz7pqS_08DCm8OZo6xHVOH5LfwK1VNger6xqOXNYFoSJ4PozPjs/s320/NKF.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #b45f06;">Dear Living Donors,</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #b45f06;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #b45f06;">The National Kidney Foundation (NKF) and MetroHealth Medical Center, in partnership with the American Society of Transplantation (AST), have developed a survey to find out more about the needs of living kidney donors.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #b45f06;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #b45f06;">We are asking individuals who have donated a kidney in the United States to participate in the survey. The purpose of this survey is to ask you to share you opinions with us so that we can better understand the needs of living organ donors. We hope to learn more about your experience as a living organ donor: what went well and what can be done to improve the experience of future living organ donors.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #b45f06;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #b45f06;">The survey will take between 20 to 40 minutes depending upon how much information you want to share.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #b45f06;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #b45f06;">For more information, or to take the survey, please visit:</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #b45f06;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;"><a href="http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/NKFDonorAfterCareSurvey" target="_blank">www.surveymonkey.com/s/NKFDonorAfterCareSurvey</a></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #b45f06;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #b45f06;">Thank you,</span><br />
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #b45f06;">Jennifer Martin</span></b><br />
<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #b45f06;">National Kidney Foundation</span></i><br />
<br />
<br />
See you soon...angela (stimpson) cuozzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04409096131820027642noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2579925097303089258.post-38375734782931999872012-02-14T05:30:00.006-05:002012-02-14T05:52:35.201-05:00give love, give life<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red; font-size: large;"><b>Happy Valentine's Day</b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div>angela (stimpson) cuozzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04409096131820027642noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2579925097303089258.post-72300263509524877062012-02-05T16:23:00.007-05:002012-02-06T13:08:34.824-05:00jogging to julia<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white; color: #666666;"><br />
</span></i><br />
<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white; color: #666666;">I'm well rested. I should be, since it's now winter and I think the last time I posted a personal update, there were still leaves on the trees. I say I'm rested because I've been tired, for about 4 months now. Exhausted is more like it. Life is good, but I've been frustrated with a few areas of my life and my brain hurts from thinking too much. I have this ability to endure physical exhaustion much more than the emotional kind. I can work nonstop on my feet for days without a break, but ask me to find a solution to a life problem, and I cave until I can get another 9 hours of sleep. </span></i><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white; color: #666666;">Let's just say that I'm in transition now. I have made some decisions that I feel are going to be positive and challenging. Gotta have that challenge, right? Challenge is knowledge and knowledge is growth. So, stay tuned for updates.</span></i><br />
<br />
If you've been following my journey through 2011, you all know that I made a <a href="http://oksolo.blogspot.com/2011/10/inspiration-pt-2.html">decision to run a half marathon</a> before the end of the year. On October 30, 2011, I finished the <a href="http://runrocknroll.competitor.com/los-angeles/event-details">Los Angeles Rock 'n' Roll Half Marathon</a> in 2:20:51.<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHk8S_D_-RTXvlicTWpUGMgH8bReLxI2OFC7rbbL1ofv_RuBidtuVKf9w1a9S4hTfITl05Fq3ZNp8n-MlD-jlEp5MZgUrXnCH85kxm8bpzmdKIzJv9WWAy3OJ8i4PMNdCkXwYw-p6holU/s1600/finish.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHk8S_D_-RTXvlicTWpUGMgH8bReLxI2OFC7rbbL1ofv_RuBidtuVKf9w1a9S4hTfITl05Fq3ZNp8n-MlD-jlEp5MZgUrXnCH85kxm8bpzmdKIzJv9WWAy3OJ8i4PMNdCkXwYw-p6holU/s400/finish.jpg" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sweaty, and stinky I'm sure, minutes after crossing the finish line.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOjOOBLUSnkzkX1O-1dhjeYOmyM7C-pC2S_0iQGGh1rX1i2PN6qfVL8N-5JHUdRHfiR6Ox4rblYK1IzNp8eqbJugPDMOvkNgkIofSbH2Pz8q4NvZWL-mi1LXRI1aRmEpZObYahVq31SVc/s1600/BACK_SHIR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOjOOBLUSnkzkX1O-1dhjeYOmyM7C-pC2S_0iQGGh1rX1i2PN6qfVL8N-5JHUdRHfiR6Ox4rblYK1IzNp8eqbJugPDMOvkNgkIofSbH2Pz8q4NvZWL-mi1LXRI1aRmEpZObYahVq31SVc/s400/BACK_SHIR.jpg" width="298" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My hand-crafted race day shirt, worn proudly.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div><br />
<br />
<div>The race was awesome! I had such a great time. I can still recall so many moments on the course. Probably one of the most rewarding and memorable experiences in my life. Right up there with the county fair. I'm not gonna lie to you, it was difficult and there were moments after mile 11 that I was asking myself why in the hell I chose this challenge instead of a hot dog eating one. But, I powered through and got my second-wind once I caught a glimpse of the finish line and the beer truck.<br />
<br />
As I pounded the pavement that day, thoughts of meeting Julia, my recipient, filtered in and out of my head. Excited, anxious, curious and a teeny-tiny bit nervous. I can't say I had any expectations. It's a waste of time, as far as I'm concerned. Like anticipating when <a href="http://espn.go.com/mlb/player/_/id/3246/derek-jeter">Derek </a>will pop the question. I have no doubt he will, I just need to be patient and wait until he can rack in another $20 mil before we settle down.<br />
<br />
I was staying in L.A. and she lives approximately 2.5 hours away. We mutually decided to meet at a Chili's restaurant and have a late lunch, so her daughter could join us after school. So, on Halloween morning, I schlepped a gallon of Starbucks coffee and my GPS all the way to Bakersfield, CA.<br />
<br />
Me and my big hair arrived early (I'm OCD), and impatiently waited for her to arrive. My hands started sweating and I suddenly started feeling that ickiness in my tummy that would hit me every time I had a blind date. What if she doesn't show? What if she backs out at the last minute because she is having second thoughts?<br />
<br />
Ten minutes later (how dare she be late) she walked in with her adorable daughter. We hugged and promptly took a seat in a booth in a hard-to-find, quiet corner. I perused the menu for something that wouldn't give me gas, or add an extra 5 lbs. to my delicate and fragile frame. What I really wanted was a margarita. That would have been a nice Kodak moment to capture, right? Me, my margarita and my California kidney. Conversation was very generic and initially focused on what else, Halloween. We chatted about her daughter and her school, the community and naturally - the weather. I decided that I was not going to lead the conversation, but instead take a step back and let her ask the questions. After all, just having this opportunity to be face-to-face with the woman that now has my kidney inside of her was more than I could ever ask for. Firing questions at her regarding her personal life was in my opinion, none of my business.<br />
<br />
She shared much more with me about her journey, her illness, her time on the list, her dialysis treatments and her frustrations of waiting for a donor. She asked few questions, but one of which I didn't expect.<br />
<br />
"What made you decide to donate?"<br />
<br />
And so, I shared my story, which really isn't too much of a story. "Because I can. Because I wanted to provide someone in need, with just a little nugget of the good health that I was fortunate enough to have every day I wake up. It really wasn't a big deal, Julia."<br />
<br />
She looked at me, and paused as tears fell down her cheeks, "It is a big deal, Angela. It's a very big deal. It's a big deal to me, my family and my daughter. You have completely changed my life."<br />
<br />
And as she said that, it was then that I realized what I had done. This woman sitting across from me in a Chili's restaurant, in Bakersfield, CA is living with my kidney. Very surreal.<br />
<br />
We spent 2.5 hours together, sharing stories of our families, our challenges and our goals. It was getting late, and time for her daughter to begin her trick-or-treating, so we decided to part. As we got up from the table I happened to look down at the floor and noticed a dragonfly tattoo on her foot. I asked her about it, and she told me that she loves dragonflies and collects anything with a dragonfly on it. I immediately thought of my blog, and the illustration featured on my page that I created in the summer of 2010.<br />
<br />
Everything happens for a reason.<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT_NNr6jmxMYD8WX_2B019_UkWN_3Y3xb-fWznEJ-y8mwIXOBEZMFOppHNZHUIuUCkkkfx3t88alCP-aa7OXXtlbx2UH-HE6tdQ86knvt40Txo4urUmhpQzKBCALgflNWEqy0Hpqob7V4/s1600/julia_angela.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="316" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT_NNr6jmxMYD8WX_2B019_UkWN_3Y3xb-fWznEJ-y8mwIXOBEZMFOppHNZHUIuUCkkkfx3t88alCP-aa7OXXtlbx2UH-HE6tdQ86knvt40Txo4urUmhpQzKBCALgflNWEqy0Hpqob7V4/s400/julia_angela.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Julia and I, October 31, 2011 - Bakersfield, CA</td></tr>
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<br />
<br />
</div></div>angela (stimpson) cuozzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04409096131820027642noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2579925097303089258.post-68577096170420768922011-12-11T07:58:00.007-05:002011-12-11T08:04:56.786-05:00the search and the gift<a href="http://vimeo.com/user3510608">John Tait,</a> a student at Columbia College Chicago, has completed <a href="http://vimeo.com/33405248">this video</a> on the recipient/donor experience. I don't know much about John, but I wanted to share this with my readers, as I thought he did a great job conveying the emotions of both parties through their journeys.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="242" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy7RXzwLtl9vjmzY1IjM904YFX3MCXaE2LfN5EbX4x2QGY7IhKsuQNWsbpfXrqTmBQqIdMA_UeGBo_MpkxzrYloAct4Z-IEejA2EEqAbhr-K_oiIrSqqRdtjHVp6Fi20smNIJuuGacfQE/s320/the+gift.jpg" width="320" /></div><br />
Great job, John.<br />
Enjoy...<br />
<i><a href="http://vimeo.com/33405248">The Search and the Gift</a></i>angela (stimpson) cuozzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04409096131820027642noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2579925097303089258.post-44551605012071041592011-11-28T09:05:00.001-05:002011-11-28T09:05:32.278-05:00survey: donor follow-up careHello, fellow donors!<br />
<br />
We invite you to take a moment to participate in this survey. It was created out of a very real need for accurate data on the follow-up contact and care that does (and often does not) happen post-donation. The living kidney donor community has learned that <a href="http://www.unos.org/">UNOS</a> (United Network for Organ Sharing) is trying to pass <a href="http://optn.transplant.hrsa.gov/policiesAndBylaws/publicComment/proposals.asp">protocol</a> (#9), that would make it mandatory for transplant centers to follow-up with their donors. However, once pressed for records of follow-up attempts, many centers have responded with the claim that donors do not wish to be contacted after their surgery for follow-up questioning and care.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5B47r9K3ZDBPB5TQHuU6IR5_5YF4grJ51BpODnGXmKY9HfzPFul0A93VSBeMR5kYkhzLv0dQPi2hTz3bJnlxd6jVHR5QDdjD5zt9uQgXNKwRCLlEyhGU-EejIfmBK6wUMbYsiz60lRo8/s1600/s.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5B47r9K3ZDBPB5TQHuU6IR5_5YF4grJ51BpODnGXmKY9HfzPFul0A93VSBeMR5kYkhzLv0dQPi2hTz3bJnlxd6jVHR5QDdjD5zt9uQgXNKwRCLlEyhGU-EejIfmBK6wUMbYsiz60lRo8/s320/s.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>In an effort to present sound proof and representative data to the transplant community to back up our sentiments that donors do typically want some form of follow-up, we decided to reach out to the donor community via this questionnaire. Your participation gives voice to this very important cause, and we thank you for speaking up on behalf of those donors who cannot do so themselves.<br />
<br />
On behalf of the living kidney donor community at large, thank you for agreeing to take part in the survey.<br />
<br />
<b>To participate, please click on this link: <a href="https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/follow-up_care">https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/follow-up_care</a></b><br />
<br />
<br />
Thank you!angela (stimpson) cuozzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04409096131820027642noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2579925097303089258.post-32137907422876036772011-11-24T06:49:00.003-05:002011-11-24T06:52:07.051-05:00giving thanks<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Thanksgiving is my favorite holiday. What more fun could anyone possibly ask for in one day? Plenty of adult beverages, food, family and football. I loooooove Thanksgiving.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaODPV8QBZS9fWEXMeaAWFRnXx3bcl2Fwh7d1AdyiZqWxp_mrfu-mNI48sEfrOx2mRe5xGq60l11NXin04udIIVvrNUeVlfxdAcKY7wRUoga5eSer1gbNn7tJ2HsQ4ApqUFWtNMD4Jjm0/s1600/tday-punkin-pie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaODPV8QBZS9fWEXMeaAWFRnXx3bcl2Fwh7d1AdyiZqWxp_mrfu-mNI48sEfrOx2mRe5xGq60l11NXin04udIIVvrNUeVlfxdAcKY7wRUoga5eSer1gbNn7tJ2HsQ4ApqUFWtNMD4Jjm0/s400/tday-punkin-pie.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
Naturally, there are endless things I'm thankful for... like water, shelter, employment, friends and family. But, there are many other elements of my day-to-day life that I just couldn't live without, and I'm going to name just a few...<br />
<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #783f04;">HAIR PRODUCTS</span><br />
Because without them, I could easily be mistaken for <a href="http://people.zap2it.com/p/tim-burton/70812">him.</a><br />
<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #783f04;">COFFEE</span><br />
Because without this, I feel like <a href="http://infydownloads.files.wordpress.com/2011/05/x-exorcist-the-movie-4-spining-heads.jpg">her.</a><br />
<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #783f04;">PILLOW</span><br />
I can't believe that I spent $44 on a piece of foam. Until 2 weeks ago, I had been using a stack of maxi-pads. I feel like I've died and gone to heaven.<a href="http://www.blogger.com/"></a><br />
<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #783f04;">SIRIUS RADIO</span><br />
I rarely treat myself to luxury, but when I purchased my car 5 years ago, I also bought a lifetime subscription to Sirius. Makes my 30-minute commute to <strike>hell</strike> work, not so painful and now I have a lifetime of jazz that follows me wherever I go.<br />
<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #783f04;">HEATED SEATS</span><br />
The butt burners in my vehicle make it the only place I'm guaranteed to be warm.<br />
<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #783f04;">RUNNING SNEAKERS</span><br />
Provides me balance in my life. Never dreamed they could mean so much to me.<br />
<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #783f04;">MOM</span><br />
My hero.<br />
<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #783f04;">CAT</span><br />
She's been with me for 3 years now, and still has no name. I don't know what I'd do without her.<br />
<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #783f04;">HEALTH</span><br />
I've been blessed, and not a day goes by that I don't thank God for giving me the ability to move my body every day.<br />
<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #783f04;">REALITY TV</span><br />
Because as long as this mindless crap exists, I'll never forget just how real my life really is.<br />
<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #783f04;">MEN</span><br />
I'll be boy-crazy until the day I die. Love me some men!<br />
<br />
That's it. For now.<br />
Wishing all my readers a day of love, food, laughter and tummy aches.<br />
<br />
Until next time... Enjoy the holiday season. It's here!angela (stimpson) cuozzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04409096131820027642noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2579925097303089258.post-36122649836566716912011-11-19T15:55:00.004-05:002011-11-20T09:00:07.960-05:00free beer and hot wings... thank youI'm not talking about the feast of hops and fat. I'm talking about the men I wake up with every weekday morning - <b>my</b> radio guys, the <a href="http://www.freebeerandhotwings.com/">Free Beer and Hot Wings</a> morning show. <br />
<div><br />
</div><div>This syndicated, morning talk show has been my daily happy pill since Howard Stern left our local radio station for satellite. I remember tuning in that first morning they took over, and as soon as I heard the name I was turned off. I'm glad I gave them a chance, because after enduring their stupidity for about two weeks, they really grew on me. I know it sounds ridiculous, but I feel like these guys are a part of my family. I've been with them through their ups and downs, the births of their children, their personal accomplishments off the air, etc... and they've been with me through mine. Right.</div><div><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQBkWU03hXHgRhz-nKduymR-HPcL3y0qdcI_njf0E0poncx6MS0pstQ5AJkODemBrVx1dfUJ9Dv-_EDyWpRtR30a2-C007PeWo8XiahixnSSht4b2Q3lWMDPpjEp7LSkgRMYhI2TSzKP0/s1600/FBHW_logo_blogpost.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQBkWU03hXHgRhz-nKduymR-HPcL3y0qdcI_njf0E0poncx6MS0pstQ5AJkODemBrVx1dfUJ9Dv-_EDyWpRtR30a2-C007PeWo8XiahixnSSht4b2Q3lWMDPpjEp7LSkgRMYhI2TSzKP0/s320/FBHW_logo_blogpost.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div><br />
</div><div>They stop in Albany for live remotes about once a year and you can guarantee that regardless of what watering hole they show up in, I'm there. I've met them countless times and they are always kind, considerate and willing to take the time to chat with all their fans. I. Love. Them.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">And I'm sure they love me. Like me? Maybe. I tune them in as soon as I hit my car in the a.m. for my dreaded trip to <strike>hell</strike> the office. I wait in the parking lot until the commercial break, then run into the office, pop open the laptop and continue to stream them until the show ends at 10am. Then I pout.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I'm particularly attracted to their show because of the wide range of current events they cover. They are all bright and humorous men, but their commentary is always fair, honest and very real. They have this ability to speak their minds without creating a partisan fog attached to their brand. I don't always agree with their social and political views, but they have a brilliant way of speaking their minds without pissing off the natives. Stay with me because I do have a point here. I'm just being selfish because these guys mean so much to me, I feel the need to brag about them.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgavfOWYUHh8gtXWVV_SZPwIYCkc4AWzHzJij9lYPJOk9CecUO9pyDWQNkMN55OyuYeBnJesUe4BPXtCQ9w7OyUDssOoe9sDPDRmbuKdAF2xyagUm-xuA6Zrpby_y4gX7IuqfbA2oZEXFk/s1600/ezane_me.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="290" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgavfOWYUHh8gtXWVV_SZPwIYCkc4AWzHzJij9lYPJOk9CecUO9pyDWQNkMN55OyuYeBnJesUe4BPXtCQ9w7OyUDssOoe9sDPDRmbuKdAF2xyagUm-xuA6Zrpby_y4gX7IuqfbA2oZEXFk/s320/ezane_me.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Eric Zane, of (FBHW) and I <br />
Summer 2010, Ravenswood Pub</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">This Wednesday morning, they updated the audience on the story of <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/11/15/kelsey-de-santis-talks-ma_n_1094852.html">Marine Cpl. Kelsey De Santis' date with Justin Timberlake.</a> I won't bore you with the details, but the premise of the story led them to the topic of emotional blackmail, and how these type of requests from us 'little' people to celebrities could easily get out of hand, and where do you draw the line? Agreed. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">It was then that the guys read an email from a <a href="http://akidneyformom.blogspot.com/">listener</a> whose mother was in need of a kidney transplant. This woman asked <a href="http://www.freebeerandhotwings.com/pg/jsp/general/cast.jsp">Eric Zane</a> if she would go on a date with her mother, to raise awareness of her mother's need for a kidney. And he jumped all over that and said, "Of course... not." In a few short minutes, the conversation quickly transitioned into kidney donation, and that's when I got a little bit excited.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I have their call-in number on my phone, for that one time in my life that I think I'm actually going to have the balls to call in and spew my opinion to the national audience about flatulence, pornography, animal abuse, or any number of the intelligent topics they cover. I took a deep breath, hit the call button and prayed they wouldn't pick up. They picked up, and then I peed my pants. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Within 15 seconds I was on the air. Honestly, I don't even remember too much of what I said, and I'm thankful that I will never have the opportunity to hear myself. I do remember expressing my thoughts on being a living kidney donor and sharing with them the opportunity that I was blessed with and how easy this is for the healthy segment of this population to consider being a part of. I explained that I was a non-directed donor, that I recently met my recipient (btw, that blog post is around the corner), and how terrific and healthy I still feel.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqyEAztPrCteN9TsdgyHDJ_W03V_DjPma0PzoMJpUmMWRkVX84ywGSU5vW6yHrbr49OZ7dFiIq299_1YHkRlmERMzKfpX3vrGP0wXUCF1vRWae1kooxIMerTX42xMq5iRptfyUfskowOI/s1600/FBHW_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="195" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqyEAztPrCteN9TsdgyHDJ_W03V_DjPma0PzoMJpUmMWRkVX84ywGSU5vW6yHrbr49OZ7dFiIq299_1YHkRlmERMzKfpX3vrGP0wXUCF1vRWae1kooxIMerTX42xMq5iRptfyUfskowOI/s400/FBHW_.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Producer Joe, Free Beer, Eric Zane, Hot Wings and Steve</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">And so, within a minute I was on and off the radio. This made my day. For two reasons: I got to talk to <b>my</b> radio guys, and, they let me share my story and bring this very important issue to the airways. You can't imagine how much this meant to me. Best part of all is that they were nice to me. I expected them to deliver sarcasm at their best. Nope. See, they <b><i>do</i></b> like me. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The conversation continued for a short bit, and they took several more calls on this. I was so happy that this was being discussed on national radio. But, I was even happier to see the positive feedback offered by their listening audience. They were as surprised as I was, getting a slew of emails from listeners expressing genuine interest in being a candidate to donate their kidney to <a href="http://akidneyformom.blogspot.com/">Kelley's</a> mom. Success!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Much to my surprise, Thursday brought even more interest in the topic, and again, <b>my</b> guys delivered. More listeners called in to express interest in the show then added <a href="http://akidneyformom.blogspot.com/">Kelley's blog link</a> to their site, for those that were requesting more information on the recipient's story. I quickly shot an email to the show and added that they need to explain to the listeners the seriousness of this process and that's it not to be taken lightly. <a href="http://www.freebeerandhotwings.com/pg/jsp/general/cast.jsp">Free Beer</a> read my email on the show and pointed the listeners to the <a href="http://www.kidneyregistry.org/index.php">National Kidney Registry</a>, should they want to learn more about how to become a donor. Once again, I peed my pants. Success, part deux!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I think I'm still riding on the high of this experience. Never in a million years did I imagine that two of my favorite things in the world would come together as one. I have since emailed Kelley, and shared with her my own personal journey, and promised her I would contact her again soon to give her some contacts. Kelley's story is just one of <a href="http://www.kidney.org/news/newsroom/fs_new/25factsorgdon&trans.cfm">80,000</a>+ right now. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">What I found to be surprising about this conversation on the air, was the overwhelming and sincere response of listeners that were actually interested in pursuing this. I still think that if we could have more opportunities to spread the word and bring awareness of living kidney donation, the misconceptions of surgery could be dramatically reduced. I'm also convinced that the media outlet to share this information needs to be re-thought. Why do we need to limit our conversation and exposure to health fairs and expos only? Why can't our voices be heard more on the radio and TV? The general public needs to be informed more often, from us donors. We've been on this journey to save a life. We continue our adventure, with only one kidney, as living proof that it can be done.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Until next time... please tune in to <a href="http://www.freebeerandhotwings.com/">hear my radio guys</a>. I guarantee you will be insulted, shocked, humored and even impressed. </div></div>angela (stimpson) cuozzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04409096131820027642noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2579925097303089258.post-67181422206770828382011-11-13T19:42:00.003-05:002011-11-13T19:45:11.513-05:00deepak and the kidneyI'm a huge fan of <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/">Huffington Post,</a> specifically, their Healthy Living features. I stumbled on a great piece written by <a href="http://www.chopra.com/">Deepak Chopra</a>, on kidneys. I found <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/deepak-chopra/chronic-kidney-disease_b_1079568.html?ref=healthy-living-body">this blog post</a> to be extremely educational, simple and easy to comprehend. I know I learned something when I read it, and I hope you do, too.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvqo8q_YJn3KvPkH6NsYq8XiYY7-POdghD159zmTQfVGR3iLCGLoGmIjKfr7agBfoI1sshyphenhyphenWy5vvmllYNxy7NTKvtuxMmaVaUZ62dR_RxmQT4uPtA-bAjYWmpBCCrXdGUvRjmmH-pGDJs/s1600/Deepak-Chopra-Photo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvqo8q_YJn3KvPkH6NsYq8XiYY7-POdghD159zmTQfVGR3iLCGLoGmIjKfr7agBfoI1sshyphenhyphenWy5vvmllYNxy7NTKvtuxMmaVaUZ62dR_RxmQT4uPtA-bAjYWmpBCCrXdGUvRjmmH-pGDJs/s320/Deepak-Chopra-Photo.jpg" width="211" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Deepak Chopra</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
For those of you not familiar with Deepak Chopra, I encourage you to do some research on his teachings and philosophy. He's a great speaker and if you ever get a chance to attend one of his lectures, jump all over that. Plus, he's a hottie. Intelligence is sexy!<br />
<br />
I hope you enjoy his post, and please leave a comment if you have other articles you feel might be beneficial to my readers.<br />
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Happy, healthy kidneys!angela (stimpson) cuozzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04409096131820027642noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2579925097303089258.post-21874858961794573122011-10-31T01:28:00.000-04:002011-10-31T01:28:02.684-04:00boo!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAVDhg1N8476uxAmW_fSmBitSknvN6YibmCLvVu2GDXmFsFLATVDQDa9KZhQuVpfnBKhcjbn-vHAcz5pWfzxvB7zFXLWvfahlArbAkEgOcR2QCg1h5ZJOhSItgihhveBDbrUQAI3V2WJI/s1600/donate-life-pumpkin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="234" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAVDhg1N8476uxAmW_fSmBitSknvN6YibmCLvVu2GDXmFsFLATVDQDa9KZhQuVpfnBKhcjbn-vHAcz5pWfzxvB7zFXLWvfahlArbAkEgOcR2QCg1h5ZJOhSItgihhveBDbrUQAI3V2WJI/s320/donate-life-pumpkin.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>angela (stimpson) cuozzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04409096131820027642noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2579925097303089258.post-11297223251003268552011-10-16T14:40:00.002-04:002011-10-21T13:48:14.977-04:00inspiration - pt. 2<b>Catch up with 'inspiration - pt. 1', <a href="http://oksolo.blogspot.com/2011/07/inspiration-pt-i.html">here.</a></b><br />
<br />
My other inspiration to reach my goal, and reach it in Californ-I-A, is my recipient. I chose this <a href="http://runrocknroll.competitor.com/los-angeles">particular race in L.A.</a>, for an opportunity to visit my kidney. My right kidney is feeling lonely and needs a hug, so, I decided to reach out to my recipient and ask her if she would be open to meeting me. I got an enthusiastic text message reply from her... "Yes, yes, yes!"<br />
<br />
Visiting <a href="http://www.visitcalifornia.com/">California</a>, participating in my first half marathon and giving myself a much overdue vacation were all part of my plan. As joyful and exciting as it would be to meet my recipient for the first time, I didn't want that possibility to interfere with my goal. It had crossed my mind that <a href="http://oksolo.blogspot.com/2010/10/2861-miles-away-and-alive-in-julia.html">Julia</a> would not be receptive to me throwing myself at her (now who could deny me?) and cashing in on my visitation right. I didn't want to plan my trip to L.A. contingent upon her acceptance or rejection of my request to meet her. So, I waited 2 days after I registered to reach out to her, and I'm glad I did. For the last 3 months my focus has been on my training, not on meeting her. It's not healthy for me emotionally, to have expectations in my life that I have no control over.<br />
<br />
There's still a chance that Julia will not want to, or be able, to meet me. Many donors never get this opportunity. Some simply don't want to know or connect with their recipients. Some are promised a contact and then the recipient never follows through with the connection. Others still just can't make it happen because of the distance between them. I decided that it's now or never for me. As much as I love to travel, I don't have available vacation time, and my income is tied up in wine, Starbucks and athletic wear. I mean, a girl's gotta live, right? I need this time, for me. Plus, I love my job so much I know I won't want to take another vacation for at least 3 years.<br />
<br />
My training has been going so well, I almost feel like I'm jinxing myself saying this out loud. I'm not denying that it has been hard, damn hard, but I feel so good about my progress. I think that following <a href="http://www.halhigdon.com/halfmarathon/novice.htm">my plan</a> precisely and maintaining some discipline with my nutrition has led me to successful preparation. I haven't been logging my pace - honestly, I could care less how long it takes me to finish. I've never been competitive, and my goal is to finish with a smile on my face. I fight my fatigue daily, and there have been times that I came so close to going straight home after work instead of hitting the <a href="http://www.colonie.org/parks/crossings/index.htm">park</a> to run, but I can't let my fatigue beat me.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKq8xkCQiYPW4_lh99oFQwZ4UPgxNdb_t9SKA1BAzTGYhWSzkkAagiuyAUNknZbcr_9Cid6cKR3TcnOeuvsl3oTdMG6RSzvJUwDweYcBhTYELWJL9L91xeSz1i-GmnCM6lg8op3crcYy0/s1600/ankle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="378" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKq8xkCQiYPW4_lh99oFQwZ4UPgxNdb_t9SKA1BAzTGYhWSzkkAagiuyAUNknZbcr_9Cid6cKR3TcnOeuvsl3oTdMG6RSzvJUwDweYcBhTYELWJL9L91xeSz1i-GmnCM6lg8op3crcYy0/s400/ankle.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Simmer down, it's a temp. </td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
There's no doubt that my recipient has been a significant inspiration to me. Some might think that it's absurd to have someone you don't know be such a motivator for an accomplishment. Every run I take, thoughts of her come to my mind. I think of how amazing it is that the human body is capable of giving up a functioning organ, and yet still able to function. I am more fit now that I was in the weeks leading up to my donation. I remember feeling so focused on my health prior to that surgery and now I feel like it's even more important to maintain that.<br />
<br />
I was running for my recipient before my kidney was gone, and now I'm running for all recipients that have yet to find a donor. I'm living proof to everyone capable of donating their kidney, that you <i><b>will</b></i> continue to live a full life and thrive in your fitness goals. I couldn't run more than 5 miles before I donated. I ran 10 miles yesterday. If there are skeptics that doubt the well-being of donors, I hope they can see the reality of not only maintaining their health, but improving upon it, after donation.<br />
<br />
I'm not nervous for October 30th - I'm excited! I've enjoyed my journey in preparation of my big day. I've learned a lot about myself and I've learned that you don't really have to know someone to be inspired by them. I hope I can inspire others to take the initiative to entertain the option to be a donor, and <a href="http://www.kidneyregistry.org/index.php">register</a> to give the gift of life.<br />
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Until next time... I'll be putting in my final miles, and still giving lots of smiles!angela (stimpson) cuozzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04409096131820027642noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2579925097303089258.post-40915563395166211822011-10-12T08:30:00.001-04:002011-10-12T08:30:57.738-04:00celebrate life<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiXu4ChTK-FaR9Ce1jk-M4s_R3wT8TnS0aBAwg5RFVkHgPPKSL42gTHH6sSLbcVH40jmrQwHdwhtxITmUov5kzBhdjpmQJDKS7BH2dOGjtLn-GIHgtNzrwaUJnUqF65irRyJ6uxCAKcoQ/s1600/donatelife_100million.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiXu4ChTK-FaR9Ce1jk-M4s_R3wT8TnS0aBAwg5RFVkHgPPKSL42gTHH6sSLbcVH40jmrQwHdwhtxITmUov5kzBhdjpmQJDKS7BH2dOGjtLn-GIHgtNzrwaUJnUqF65irRyJ6uxCAKcoQ/s320/donatelife_100million.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>angela (stimpson) cuozzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04409096131820027642noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2579925097303089258.post-85492922534411512462011-09-29T20:41:00.001-04:002011-09-29T20:42:10.808-04:00OPTN/UNOS policy proposal for public comment<b><br />
</b><br />
<b>UNOS/OPTN distributed electronically, September 16, 2011.</b><br />
<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;"><i>[ The proposed policies from the Living Donor Committee, and likely to be of more interest to living kidney donors: #8, #9, #10, #31, #42, #43 & #50. ]</i></span><br />
<br />
This document contains fourteen policy proposals being offered for public comment. These proposals were developed by OPTN/UNOS committees. When the public comment period ends on December 23, 2011, each sponsoring committee will review the feedback they receive and consider modifications to the original proposals. The OPTN/UNOS Board of Directors may then review and vote on these proposals at its meeting on Juney 25-26, 2012.<br />
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We welcome your feedback on this policy proposal and other aspects of the public comment process as we continue to improve the way that we communicate with the community. Please note that all exhibits and appendices to these proposals can be found on the OPTN website via the link below. Please click on <a href="http://optn.transplant.hrsa.gov/policiesAndBylaws/publicComment/proposals.asp">this link</a> to provide your comments on these proposals.<br />
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You may also send general feedback to: publiccomment@unos.org.<br />
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Please submit all comments no later than December 23, 2011. For questions about the proposal, please contact your Regional Administrator at (804) 782-4800.<br />
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Thank you in advance for your careful review and feed back on this proposal.<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF9bjbQtAS-e9ZwuchN4Tg3n6arUwcYuDdvLho1XlA6IQ0-dHc9C0i9-L9vBQFEWWnTkR49Q9bpDAVhtKL-wkjhZ54_qAfiLg4ZmF9M756NU721CLdvJVwN20aEu386X2gjIec_zAwZgI/s1600/OPTN.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="68" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF9bjbQtAS-e9ZwuchN4Tg3n6arUwcYuDdvLho1XlA6IQ0-dHc9C0i9-L9vBQFEWWnTkR49Q9bpDAVhtKL-wkjhZ54_qAfiLg4ZmF9M756NU721CLdvJVwN20aEu386X2gjIec_zAwZgI/s200/OPTN.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">For information on OPTN: </div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://optn.transplant.hrsa.gov/"> Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidQuRd1HBQ98itgsR6ukbVQnXQ4TBh8_8VRv-d2lOIn5j_fe2MsC4ZrGyFfvuqJqNTa14hWtpEXzG-26E9wC8DyoZCSOoHGFbEhKi2XZ8fbUY6ja4-u0Ef1CUqA3M57jgKB-el4Nwh0Gc/s1600/UNOS.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="73" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidQuRd1HBQ98itgsR6ukbVQnXQ4TBh8_8VRv-d2lOIn5j_fe2MsC4ZrGyFfvuqJqNTa14hWtpEXzG-26E9wC8DyoZCSOoHGFbEhKi2XZ8fbUY6ja4-u0Ef1CUqA3M57jgKB-el4Nwh0Gc/s200/UNOS.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">For information on UNOS: </div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.unos.org/">United Network for Organ Sharing</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
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</div>angela (stimpson) cuozzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04409096131820027642noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2579925097303089258.post-18676324641455455492011-09-22T07:32:00.002-04:002011-09-22T07:33:52.682-04:00one year. one kidney<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Happy Anniversary, to me. A Starbucks skinny vanilla latte is helping me celebrate. Yum.<br />
<br />
One year ago today, September 22, 2010, I donated my kidney to an unknown recipient. I remember waking up from the anesthesia and whispering to my mother, "I'm so happy I did this." And I still am.<br />
<br />
I would do it again tomorrow, but I can't. I recall going into surgery early that morning feeling remarkably calm as I laid down on the operating table. My last thought before being put under was how unfortunate it was that I was going to miss the moment that I had been anticipating for 6 months. Bam! It's over, and I have nothing to show for it, but my scar. It's a constant reminder, and a good one. I think doc did a damn fine job.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgI3KWF4J970LjHNF6DbR7g9_gG4bKehGrN4q86_kK7k2s40GHkFMyqGcyTO6FUn8fVTgqa1XFU1_qs97qA9Y74RcPQh3WEyOCeNKULLugmTz57eu33xquRgHDLMPBou4KL50Ic3dOlrE/s1600/Sept20-2010.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="308" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgI3KWF4J970LjHNF6DbR7g9_gG4bKehGrN4q86_kK7k2s40GHkFMyqGcyTO6FUn8fVTgqa1XFU1_qs97qA9Y74RcPQh3WEyOCeNKULLugmTz57eu33xquRgHDLMPBou4KL50Ic3dOlrE/s320/Sept20-2010.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">September 20, 2010</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">October 31, 2010</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjC5QMwajs-GA2SiPE_ZuektKusVWZQf7IiB9PwV3x4wqICLgTlth6r99XZunvTgoQrl5Q3Rw0Wutc_gLlHR62b3DQbIyyR7hqa5YK5n_H7PgJo4w4BTtoEIEULxQvaLEaZ0OURVHm8S8/s1600/belly092211.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjC5QMwajs-GA2SiPE_ZuektKusVWZQf7IiB9PwV3x4wqICLgTlth6r99XZunvTgoQrl5Q3Rw0Wutc_gLlHR62b3DQbIyyR7hqa5YK5n_H7PgJo4w4BTtoEIEULxQvaLEaZ0OURVHm8S8/s320/belly092211.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">September 22, 2011</td></tr>
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<div>My left kidney is now in the body of a beautiful 29-year old woman in Bakersfield, CA. And I wish I was there with it. Hello, sunshine!! Last I heard, she is doing fantastic. Her doctor has given her the go-ahead to have another baby, and she is thrilled to be working once again, going to school, and enjoying the wonderful life that for so long she had been stripped of. I don't have much contact with her, but a warm text message pops up once every few months with an update on her health. You can't imagine how relieved I am when I hear of this good news. I still think about her every day.</div><div><br />
</div><div>I often get questioned about my health since that big day. (Physical, not mental, cuz they all know I'm a freak.) Friends still ask me how I'm feeling, and what changes I may have noticed since the donation. Honestly, I feel great. No pain, anywhere. As you can see from the crappy iPhone pics, my incision scar has healed beautifully and I am still shocked that they pulled anything larger than an M&M out of that. And there would be gobs of them... peanut, coconut, peanut butter...</div><div><br />
</div><div>There is one side effect from my surgery that has not diminished. Fatigue. Boo hoo. It's bad and it's not getting better. I hate to admit it, because outside of this one issue, I'm exactly the same person I was on September 21, 2010. The fatigue was expected early on in my recovery, and I was aware that I would have to work through it over time. Well, it's been a year now, and it's not any better than it was the day after my surgery. </div><div><br />
</div><div>I am a very busy chick, and I do push myself, but I know my body and I know that I feel different now. I believe that fatigue is manageable. It's not pain, it's an inconvenience. I work through it, but it's hard as hell. Some days I feel like I could fall asleep standing up. Even when I'm in the middle of the most exciting and stimulating adventure with friends, I feel tired. All. The. Time. It never goes away and I am having a hard time tolerating it. But, I will. I do.<br />
<br />
There are donors that have experienced this long-term fatigue, as I have been doing some research online to find suggestions as to how they cope with it. I know there are prospective donors that read my blog, and I mention all this because I think it's important to be honest in sharing my experience. I do want to be clear though that not all donors suffer from this particular side effect. I want to reiterate that every single donor has a unique experience - before, during and after surgery. Some donors have suggested that maybe I am still not healed and that the fatigue will slowly go away. That would be great and I am anxiously awaiting that possibility. </div><div><br />
</div><div>The goal with my blog was to inspire and motivate just one individual to donate their kidney. That hasn't happened yet. However, I have met some amazing donors that I have had the pleasure of mentoring over this past year, and that's a huge achievement in my heart. I hope that I can continue to educate, inspire and be a friend to those that are beginning their donation journey. I know I had a <a href="http://simplycara.blogspot.com/">wonderful mentor</a> when I began mine and I want to continue to help others in the same way that Cara helped me.</div><div><br />
</div><div>I am so fortunate to have the ability to do what I did. I enjoyed the process, the research, the knowledge I gained, and more than anything, I have enjoyed knowing that I have given new life to a woman, her husband, and her daughter.<br />
<br />
For those interested in learning more about becoming a living kidney donor, please visit the following organizations online to get more information. Take the opportunity to have the most meaningful experience of your life - donate your kidney.<br />
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• <a href="http://www.kidneyregistry.org/index.php">National Kidney Registry</a><br />
• <a href="http://lkdn.org/">Living Kidney Donors Network</a><br />
• <a href="http://www.kidney.org/">National Kidney Foundation</a><br />
• <a href="http://www.unos.org/">United Network for Organ Sharing</a></div><div><br />
</div><div>Until next time... It's getting cold in NY, I've released the wool and down comforter - hibernation has begun. Not happy.</div>angela (stimpson) cuozzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04409096131820027642noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2579925097303089258.post-3588510014416092002011-09-11T19:16:00.000-04:002011-09-11T19:16:57.728-04:00UNOS region 9 meetingLiving kidney donors, listen up!<br />
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<a href="http://www.unos.org/">UNOS (United Network for Organ Sharing)</a> is holding a conference at which they will be forming transplantation and donation policies that could affect current and future donors - and they are doing so without the representation of the donor community.<br />
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We need your voice! Please help protect our rights by attending their Region 9 conference with us.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSbN7xfU-wFK65ao9UtrXrupP-XRGuTAXDexZYUudkaHbKGVG5ZUdOOViOeU-kBBocFi_kHLZTIGzXhgW_JrAM3Ch_DmF5NLsTqoepsy7uZ0OjhJz-RGhAEZ6d5tpQX8gN5Lc1P-5a43c/s1600/UNOS.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSbN7xfU-wFK65ao9UtrXrupP-XRGuTAXDexZYUudkaHbKGVG5ZUdOOViOeU-kBBocFi_kHLZTIGzXhgW_JrAM3Ch_DmF5NLsTqoepsy7uZ0OjhJz-RGhAEZ6d5tpQX8gN5Lc1P-5a43c/s320/UNOS.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><b>Wednesday, October 12th, 2011</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>10am-3pm</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/albny-albany-marriott/"><b>Albany Marriot</b></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>189 Wolf Road, Albany, NY</b></div><br />
If you are interested in joining forces with other living kidney donors who want to be heard, please send us an email: lkdalliance@gmail.com<br />
<br />
I encourage you to get involved in UNOS through attending this upcoming regional meeting and participating in the policy making process.<br />
<br />
Would love to have this opportunity to meet other living donors, and share our experiences!<br />
<br />
See you there!angela (stimpson) cuozzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04409096131820027642noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2579925097303089258.post-48252706601758661512011-08-15T20:32:00.000-04:002011-08-15T20:32:12.827-04:00please participate in a donor survey<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">I'm reposting this one more time, kids...</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">This post is for all my fellow kidney donors, both directed and non-directed.</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">I am working with a group of donors and we have created another survey that we are asking you to participate in. If you missed the opportunity to take our first survey, you can go <a href="http://oksolo.blogspot.com/2011/04/survey.html">here</a>, to complete that one as well.</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">The purpose of this particular survey is to find out what improvements could be made in the living donor community, specifically with the pre and post-op care from your center in which you donated. Your answers will be treated in confidence and will help to plan discussions with transplant programs, legistlators, HRSA and insurance carriers.</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">Please take a moment to forward this email to any living kidney donor that you might know. This survey can be directed to both altruistic donors, and designated donors. Our goal is to collect 300 completed surveys. We encourage you to share this link on your blogs, social media sites, or emails.</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">We thank you for your time and consideration and we look forward to hearing from you! If anyone has questions or comments, please contact me directly by emailing me at: ars0168@yahoo.com</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">Please click on the following link to direct you to the survey: <a href="https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/9WVJLSY">https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/9WVJLSY</a></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">Summer will be gone soon (boo-freaking-hoo), so soak up the sun and enjoy the final month of my favorite season!</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">Smiles...</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">Angela</div>angela (stimpson) cuozzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04409096131820027642noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2579925097303089258.post-4562931032277973772011-07-26T23:03:00.003-04:002011-08-02T10:36:06.453-04:00inspiration - pt. IThe <a href="http://newyork.yankees.mlb.com/index.jsp?c_id=nyy">Yankees</a> are on and it's actually being broadcast on a station that I get with my 'Poor Girl's Cable Package'. Options also include: Public Access, HSN, C-SPAN and TV Guide Channel. Hell of a selection, isn't it? Anyhow, I'm a little distracted because I have to look up at my 10" TV every time <a href="http://espn.go.com/mlb/player/_/id/3246/derek-jeter">my boyfriend's</a> at bat. I couldn't wait until tomorrow night to share my news, so as scattered as this post may be, here goes...<br />
<br />
I pulled the trigger. Not on a gun because I don't like guns. I guess what I mean is that in a moment of confusion, anxiety and immense motivation to reach a goal I had set to achieve this year, I registered today for the <a href="http://runrocknroll.competitor.com/los-angeles">L.A. Rock 'n' Roll Half Marathon</a>, on October 30, 2011.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjZVaE5ABzHRCJXsNIPvBic7C63BAZW9aXc3PddIj09HARG5pZVncmsNn1a4dhgTPqJXUsWaOrQgyf5hdEykzzlWRrbFV5LpR4Bd0Xqde8v3z5qnMDUsqTFI4Q1jFX5YnTSwkHD_SYGP0/s1600/LA-marathon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjZVaE5ABzHRCJXsNIPvBic7C63BAZW9aXc3PddIj09HARG5pZVncmsNn1a4dhgTPqJXUsWaOrQgyf5hdEykzzlWRrbFV5LpR4Bd0Xqde8v3z5qnMDUsqTFI4Q1jFX5YnTSwkHD_SYGP0/s320/LA-marathon.jpg" width="309" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />
<div style="text-align: left;">This is a big, f*ckin' deal, folks! Why? Because I can't run. I shuffle, I skip, I scoot, and when I'm frustrated, I stomp. Not to mention that I'm out $100 if I break a leg, or need a kidney, or have PMS.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #cc0000;">[They're winning. Top of the 7th, 3-0. Don't ask who they're playing because it doesn't really matter.]</span></i></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">As disappointed as I have been with my running performance lately, I was determined to push forward. The frustrations started to increase about 2 months ago, after I completed my first 10K race. I did great at that race, but ever since then, I seemed to be getting slower, and sloooower. I struggled with as little as a 3-mile run and couldn't seem to get anything to feel right. My energy was down, my body felt heavy and tight, and I my breathing became increasingly difficult. My peers in the running community continued to make progress, increasing their distance, and here I was moving backwards. Everything I was doing, I was doing wrong. Depressing. I began to read more in search of tips and suggestions or even answers that could serve as a diagnosis of sorts to make me feel better about my crappy performance. I got nothing.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #cc0000;"><i>[Rain delay, bottom of the 7th.]</i></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">I decided to reach out <strike>and touch someone</strike> for help, because I was a little pissed, to be honest. I follow a local blog here, called <a href="http://how2runfast.com/">How 2 Run <i>Fast</i></a> and emailed the blogger, Mike. I asked if he might know of a local running coach and he was kind enough to put a post about my inquiry on another local blog he writes for, <a href="http://blog.timesunion.com/running/author/mikelachapelle/">The Times Union Runners Blog.</a> Readers provided some suggestions and comments, but the best reply came from a woman that would be my inspiration to kick this struggle into full gear and move forward. Her name is <a href="http://www.runninghightees.com/pages/AboutUs.php">Mary Ibbetson.</a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #cc0000;">[Top of the 8th, Yankees still winning. Rain still falling.]</span></i></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Mary reached out and offered to help me. Poor woman. After a few email exchanges, we chatted on the phone and by the end of the conversation, I already started feeling motivated to make some changes. What an <a href="http://blog.timesunion.com/michaelhuber/mary-ibbetson/844/">amazing woman!</a> (Please take a moment and get to know Mary.) With her inspiration, coaching and torture, I know that I can reach my goal now. As she says, the work is 90% mental. Why then does it feel like it's 90% hell? With the help of her presence in my life, for however long or short it may be, I made a decision to register for my first half marathon. Thank you, Mary.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #cc0000;">[Now it's really pouring, still 3-0 and the fans are slowly trickling out.]</span></i></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">I have done a heck of a lot of pokin' around the internet to find the perfect race for my first half marathon. I have reviewed countless options - everything from locations, to themes, to fundraising partners, dates and registration rules. I was shocked as to how many are out there, but also excited that I would even have that many options.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #cc0000;"><i>[Home run, Mark Teixeira! Now the Yankees lead 4-1, bottom of the 8th.]</i></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">It's strongly suggested that when you create a running goal such as the one I have, you need to make the commitment and register for that big race, whether it's your first 5K, or your 6th marathon. I needed to do that, and I needed to do it now. It will hold me accountable and I'm the type that once I set my mind to something, I will do everything in my power to follow-thru because the one person I never want to disappoint, is me.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #cc0000;"><i>[Game over and the Yankees win!]</i></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">I have 13 weeks to train for this. For some reason, the training program I have to follow does not include: Sal's mojitos at <a href="http://www.hattiesrestaurant.com/menu.php">Hattie's</a>, the yummy Death by Chocolate ice cream from <a href="http://www.stewartsshops.com/ContentManager/index.cfm?Step=Display&ContentID=57">Stewart's</a>, Jimbos at <a href="http://www.bombersburritobar.com/Sctdy_BeerMargarita.pdf">Bomber's</a>, Chocolate Peanut Butter Pie at <a href="http://www.thewatersedgelighthouse.com/index.cfm">The Lighthouse</a>, and my Friday night bag 'o pork rinds in bed. It should. Guess I'll need to make some minor modifications.</div><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWokMC_g9JOn2YJJwFgiZpG02-tiNsIGPkplU1dlgsI1r5Jt9aVr__5JX56PG6r8Smle8hQDInXSt3aTJOOQ2QfiwtYGfAm71fUPYyk9g09a7SFJgYOJWcTwYQtUwZXCmM2_hXh08mxUI/s1600/hatties.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="327" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWokMC_g9JOn2YJJwFgiZpG02-tiNsIGPkplU1dlgsI1r5Jt9aVr__5JX56PG6r8Smle8hQDInXSt3aTJOOQ2QfiwtYGfAm71fUPYyk9g09a7SFJgYOJWcTwYQtUwZXCmM2_hXh08mxUI/s400/hatties.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My brother and I enjoying what I now know was my last mojito for the summer. Boo hoo.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
So, I've started my training, I'm excited and proud of my decision to register. More importantly, I know I can do this.<br />
<br />
Oh, and there's one more reason why I selected this half marathon in Los Angeles...<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Until next time... I'm counting the days until the<a href="http://www.damonrunyon.org/yankeestadium/more/FAQs-run-walk-for-cancer-research/"> Runyon 5K at Yankee Stadium!</a>angela (stimpson) cuozzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04409096131820027642noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2579925097303089258.post-7236319922256926322011-07-22T22:09:00.000-04:002011-07-22T22:09:13.500-04:00survey #2: transplant centers and careThis post is for all my fellow kidney donors, both directed and non-directed.<br />
<br />
I am working with a group of donors and we have created another survey that we are asking you to participate in. If you missed the opportunity to take our first survey, you can go <a href="http://oksolo.blogspot.com/2011/04/survey.html">here</a>, to complete that one as well.<br />
<br />
The purpose of this particular survey is to find out what improvements could be made in the living donor community, specifically with the pre and post-op care from your center in which you donated. Your answers will be treated in confidence and will help to plan discussions with transplant programs, legistlators, HRSA and insurance carriers.<br />
<br />
Please take a moment to forward this email to any living kidney donor that you might know. This survey can be directed to both altruistic donors, and designated donors. Our goal is to collect 300 completed surveys. We encourage you to share this link on your blogs, social media sites, or emails.<br />
<br />
We thank you for your time and consideration and we look forward to hearing from you! If anyone has questions or comments, please contact me directly by emailing me at: ars0168@yahoo.com<br />
<br />
Please click on the following link to direct you to the survey: <a href="https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/9WVJLSY">https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/9WVJLSY</a><br />
<br />
Hope everyone is enjoying their summer!<br />
<br />
Smiles...<br />
Angelaangela (stimpson) cuozzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04409096131820027642noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2579925097303089258.post-60497330641115013882011-06-20T22:07:00.004-04:002011-06-27T21:18:15.500-04:00living donors doin' D.C.It's gonna be another long one kids, so grab a <a href="http://www.pabstblueribbon.com/AgeVerification.aspx">PBR</a>, sitchurass down and read yourself to sleep...<br />
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Back in February, I volunteered to take an online test for the <a href="http://psychology.georgetown.edu/">Department of Psychology at Georgetown University</a>. This 90 minute test featured several visual tasks and questions that would determine if I would eventually be eligible to be a participant in their Social Behavior Study on Altruistic Living Donors. Because my brain is flawless (duh), I was selected to be a participant and invited to spend a weekend held against my will, in a dark and cold science building on the beautiful campus at Georgetown University. <a href="http://explore.georgetown.edu/people/aam72/?PageTemplateID=131">Dr. Abigail Marsh</a>, and her adorable assistants (beautiful and smart - I hate them all) arranged for the testing on Saturday, June 4th.<br />
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As many of my readers know, I have made a special bond with my donor mentor, <a href="http://simplycara.blogspot.com/">Cara Yesawich</a>, since first being introduced to her last spring. As luck would have it, Cara was selected to be a part of this study too. A little organized planning, with the help of Georgetown University and Cara, we scheduled our testing on the same weekend so that we could finally meet in person. I don't know if I was more anxious to meet Cara, or have my brain picked. My anticipation for this weekend was killing me leading up to it and I feel so fortunate that this opportunity came my way. Cara and I decided to add an extra day to the weekend so that we could tear up the town Saturday night and leave our mark in D.C. We succeeded and I must say that I have found a friend for life that totally 'gets me', fills my heart with joy and enjoys wine equally as much as I do.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8BjUVVTMNwBxPMy5atPJ7yKHWoG8Kbm-cePvv6fX0eOkwz_RnhT1RjqjZfmGiUuOO1ssOBlNGzaNC3lOLPvSVfqNLDpbw-0kac06tpRmBVmd3KYGn_yJXjnZ8-C4HuD0GhHm7_x78IXY/s1600/me_cara.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8BjUVVTMNwBxPMy5atPJ7yKHWoG8Kbm-cePvv6fX0eOkwz_RnhT1RjqjZfmGiUuOO1ssOBlNGzaNC3lOLPvSVfqNLDpbw-0kac06tpRmBVmd3KYGn_yJXjnZ8-C4HuD0GhHm7_x78IXY/s400/me_cara.jpg" width="337" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kidney sisters, for life...<br />
Cara and I enjoying dinner and drinks, and drinks, and drinks.</td></tr>
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<div>We were told very little about the purpose of this study. We knew only that the day would entail a series of tests, an MRI and an interview by Dr. Marsh. Considering the battery of medical and psychological tests that we both went through to become a donor, we knew we could handle pretty much anything they would throw at us. </div><div><br />
</div><div>Our arrival at the CFMI (Center for Molecular Imaging) was at 10am, and in we strolled hungover, still up from the night before, and stinky. Kidding. Kinda. No, I'm kidding, we were clean and sober, greeted by Dr. Marsh and her assistants, and given our itinerary for the day.<br />
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Our first item on the agenda was to meet privately with Dr. Marsh and her team and sign our life away, again, on all kinds of paperwork. Since I was having an fMRI scan, a pregnancy test was required, just to confirm that I was safe with no bun in the oven. Now, I have never selectively taken a pregnancy test in my life. I'm not sure if that's a good thing, or a bad thing, but it's the truth. I don't even know how they work, to be honest. The assistant gives me the test and tells me to dip the strip in the urine sample and then watch for the results. I have no reason to believe that I would be pregnant, unfortunately, but I was more terrified of that test than I was donating my kidney. I don't know what it was, but I was a nervous wreck watching the strip slooooowly reveal the results. I couldn't help but think, what would I have done if it showed up positive? Probably have many regrets about the night before.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I want to know what exactly does 'invalid' imply?</td></tr>
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</div><div>So that drama scene ended quickly and they shuffle me off to begin the fMRI. What is an fMRI, you ask? Well let me tell you. </div><div><br />
</div><div><i><u><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #0b5394;">Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI)</span></u><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #0b5394;">, is a technique for measuring brain activity. It works by detecting the changes in blood oxygenation and flow that occur in response to neural activity. Get it?</span></i></div><div><br />
</div><div>In I go through the tube with this giant contraption thingy attached to my head. I look into the headpiece they place over my eyes and inside is a view of the desktop of a computer monitor. I'm not liking it already. I thought I was going to be able to sleep for 90 minutes and dream of an island adventure with <a href="http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/baseball/mlb/players/5406/index.html">Derek</a>, now I'm being told I have to think. They put a clicker device in my hand with buttons that correlate to numbered answers of the 750 questions that I think I had to answer. I can't divulge the details of the test, but let's just say that I was a little creeped out. Between the repetitive banging noise and the rapid flashing of a million black and white photos, I couldn't stop thinking of <a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0087803/">"1984"</a>. The movie, not the year.</div><div><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5jCN93-36oVFm0978zlgy2u5elxET0epAQc0nN_wEg3Wemn75MeER9ikSYsEwNEp7IiG08PRDRqBplexQaYGVOfoodBrQNNc4tmgJfgGkQwaNEP64Xfp2op_dYrzNpWDgV4cewibFU_Q/s1600/1984.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="260" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5jCN93-36oVFm0978zlgy2u5elxET0epAQc0nN_wEg3Wemn75MeER9ikSYsEwNEp7IiG08PRDRqBplexQaYGVOfoodBrQNNc4tmgJfgGkQwaNEP64Xfp2op_dYrzNpWDgV4cewibFU_Q/s400/1984.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"1984" with John Hurt and Richard Burton <br />
This was me, only they were kind enough to let me lie down.</td></tr>
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It was all very surreal, slightly uncomfortable, and too damn hard for 11am on a Saturday morning. I was equally fascinated though. The tests were very interesting and left no time for you to think about an answer. You had to think quickly and accurately and go with your gut. Speaking of gut, mine was getting grumbly and after the 90-minute fMRI exam, I was free to roam the compound in search of food and beverage as long as I kept my ankle bracelet on.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is some glamour shot, isn't it? Smokin' hot!</td></tr>
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</div><div>They provided us with lunch, so I loaded up from their 450 item salad bar and sat outside to eat since I would not be seeing daylight again for another 5 hours. The one day that I am required to be indoors and I think it could have quite possibly been the most beautiful day of the year.</div><div><br />
</div><div>I think it was about 1:30 after I finished lunch and I was expected at <a href="http://maps.georgetown.edu/white-gravenorhall/">White-Gravenor Building</a> for more computer tasks. If you have never been to the Georgetown campus, you don't know what you're missing. It's absolutely beautiful and the architecture is stunning.</div><div><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUPb9v2VHDAHNuXehv2Uae2x2b6tTWM8HRaLrDsAO37RaqshXcvI4zbEGuaeH77hVvCC6ktoT_amL29xz25z3ppc_mqOTz6nSIrI6L2Pc9AXC6MVVEiLJXOhH111jVE6gNwI8qG7yAnR8/s1600/white_grovenor.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUPb9v2VHDAHNuXehv2Uae2x2b6tTWM8HRaLrDsAO37RaqshXcvI4zbEGuaeH77hVvCC6ktoT_amL29xz25z3ppc_mqOTz6nSIrI6L2Pc9AXC6MVVEiLJXOhH111jVE6gNwI8qG7yAnR8/s400/white_grovenor.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">White-Gravenor Building, where we remained for the remainder of our study.</td></tr>
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<div>Elise Cardinale and Alissa Mrazek were the two lovely assistants that conducted most of the exams that day. I wanted to adopt them. Beautiful and smart as I mentioned, but they could not have been kinder and more accommodating the entire day. Poor Alissa must have drawn the short straw because she had the pleasure of monitoring me the rest of the day while I took all my tests. I can't share too much information about the nature of the tests, or the brain police will come after me. As much as I would like to provide details on the specifics of the tests, I would not want to compromise their study. They have put so much time and hard work into this program and as important as it is to them, it's just as important to me. Any efforts that are given towards the study of altruistic living donors is applauded by me and I can't thank them enough for this opportunity to help them with their research program. </div><div><br />
</div><div>What I can tell you is that there were several visual challenges. Remember when you were a child and the teacher would give you a word, like 'wet', and then you were given images to select from and had to choose one that would best represent that word, like 'pond'. Well, that's kinda the nature of these tests. Sounds easy, doesn't it? Of course it is, for the first 15 words, then she's shouting out vocabulary with no vowels, showing me photos of world maps and asking me to match them up. Not good. I was hoping for a stack of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rorschach_test">Rorschachs</a> thrown at me. I'm an artist, not Magellan. I felt like I was 12 again. No, like I was 6 again. It was horrible and did wonders for my already diminished self-esteem.</div><div><br />
</div><div>We moved on to some short answers, fill in the blanks and multiple choice. Now we're talking.</div><div><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7QHvhkGatX0CphA-rinK4rExtAXwoLCKpZRb_nFdSsN-GCsoQYLjIceLE2nysaqUPYbrtmmH8FypSErS71g7dhO8JSkZx6HAIi4-oCjCYV1qrtG3TykW8lALw05O0go29_wCGLW-vyvQ/s1600/paperwork.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7QHvhkGatX0CphA-rinK4rExtAXwoLCKpZRb_nFdSsN-GCsoQYLjIceLE2nysaqUPYbrtmmH8FypSErS71g7dhO8JSkZx6HAIi4-oCjCYV1qrtG3TykW8lALw05O0go29_wCGLW-vyvQ/s400/paperwork.jpg" width="297" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Personality and character questions - the easy stuff, finally.</td></tr>
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<div>These were relatively simple, but still had you thinking hard at times. Let's just say, a lot of the material was based on morality, character and values. That's pretty obvious though, since the study is about our emotions, personal choices and why we make the decisions we do. </div><div><br />
</div><div>We finished up all the computer and paper testing and my final portion of the day's itinerary was to meet with Dr. Marsh for an interview. The interview was conducted in her office and 2 other team members involved with the study were present to observe. She asked if she could film me and I told her only if she got my good side. She drilled me with questions that are pretty typical of those that I have already been asked by others in my life:<br />
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<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #0b5394;">Was there a life-changing event that motivated you to donate your kidney?</span></i> No. I was bored and needed some downtime.<br />
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<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #0b5394;">How did your family react when you told them of your decision?</span> </i> "You'll do anything to lose 5 lbs., won't ya?"<br />
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<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #0b5394;">How has this experience changed you?</span></i> I walk a little lopsided now.<br />
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You get the point. And the questions continued for about an hour or so. I lost track of time, as this was probably the most interesting portion of the study for me. I enjoy talking intimating about my experience and I rarely get an opportunity to do so, freely, without being judged or sometimes even ignored. I suppose that one of the joys of my trip to D.C. was because of the lengthy conversations Cara and I had about our journey - comparing notes, laughing and reminiscing about the day of our surgery.<br />
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My day wrapped up around 6pm and although both Cara and I were mentally drained, we had just enough energy left in us to hit the town for a cocktail and a nice dinner. This night was especially enjoyable for me because of our conversation about the day's events. A perfect ending to a perfect weekend.<br />
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I don't know the duration of this study and although I have been given some information regarding the purpose of it, it's not for me to share. I will say that it was an honor to play such an important role in the gathering of neurological data that can be derived from living kidney donors. I learned a lot, and I finally had the chance to meet my mentor... my friend, Cara.<br />
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Until next time... this girl is lovin' every minute of the sun and sweat in NY!</div>angela (stimpson) cuozzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04409096131820027642noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2579925097303089258.post-47204944743382184582011-05-22T20:38:00.002-04:002011-06-27T21:17:35.409-04:00national kidney registry... thank you!On the weekend of May 1, 2011, the 11th Annual Meeting of the American Society of Tranplant Surgeons and The American Society of Transplantation, met in Philadelphia, PA for the <a href="http://2011.atcmeeting.org/">2011 American Transplant Conference.</a> The word 'American' is used way too many times in that sentence. <a href="http://www.kidneyregistry.org/index.php">The National Kidney Registry (NKR)</a> was a participant. I can only assume that there is a tremendous amount of scientific and clinical information regarding solid organ and tissue transplantation exchanged and discussed among some of the top surgeons and scientists in the world. Yawn. As interesting as I'm sure the presentations were, I would imagine it would all sound Greek to me. I am intrigued (for the obvious reasons) by this area of study, but know I would last all of 5 minutes as an audience member.<br />
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NKR, specifically Diane Zocchia (my transplant coordinator), was kind enough to invite me to attend a reception at this event on the evening of May 2nd. I was thrilled at this opportunity to mingle with the <s>rich and famous</s> <a href="http://www.kidneyregistry.org/about_us.php#management_team">NKR Management Team</a> and other transplant center medical staff, but even more excited when she told me that I would be meeting 10-12 living donors. Since my surgery, I have not yet met another altruistic donor and the thought of being able to share stories amongst other donors was very exciting to me. Diane told me I could bring a guest that was with me during my donation experience. Since <a href="http://yankees.mlb.com/team/player.jsp?player_id=116539">Derek</a> was knee deep in season, I chose my mom. What a trade-off, eh? Off we go in the Jetta - me, mom and Xanax, on our little roadtrip to Philly, adding a few days to make it a mini vacation. Wow.<br />
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Monday's agenda started with a small donor meeting in our hotel so we could all be introduced to each other. What a wonderful group of people, but then again I expected nothing less. Diane asked if we could attend a press conference at City Hall to help publicize the National Kidney Registry. Sure, why not. What we didn't know then is that we would all be asked to speak at the <a href="http://philadelphia.cbslocal.com/2011/05/08/kidney-donors-gathered-at-city-hall-to-publicize-the-national-kidney-registry/">press conference</a>. Thank God for the Xanax. Although I was terrified to speak in front a crowd full of cameras, it was a great experience and I was honored and proud to be there to represent NKR. State representative <a href="http://www.bobgodshall.com/">Robert W. Godshall</a> of PA was in attendance as well to receive a Political Action Award for introducing ground breaking legislation in the Organ and Bone Marrow Act.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl7Qc4wm9N-xOVwG98O6jADkzGro5vQ1oYi-f1s8V_GkdadR7R67sdKZfkDAWm3_oi-Yaex1fLOfUuob2QttYL_N1Ekqwo0x7ItgrhBusMXckYl1hr_eyDIEd_AwKy8ULreSowRExOQnE/s1600/press_conference_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl7Qc4wm9N-xOVwG98O6jADkzGro5vQ1oYi-f1s8V_GkdadR7R67sdKZfkDAWm3_oi-Yaex1fLOfUuob2QttYL_N1Ekqwo0x7ItgrhBusMXckYl1hr_eyDIEd_AwKy8ULreSowRExOQnE/s400/press_conference_1.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 11px;">(L to R) Lynne Samson, director of the National Transplant Foundation, State Representative and bone marrow recipient Robert W. Godshall (R) Montgomery County Pennsylvania, Gary LeBlanc, director of education and outreach for the National Kidney Registry, Janele Guzik, donor from CA, Judith Pasquarella, donor from MI, Daryl Julich, donor from IA, Hope Preston, donor from NJ, Angela Stimpson from NY and Chris Pricco, COO for OptumHealth Care Solutions (Photo courtesy of AP).</span></td></tr>
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That evening, NKR hosted the 3rd Annual Awards Reception, honoring the achievements of the American Transplant Community. All 11 of the altruistic donors were invited. What we didn't know until that day is that we were all being honored with the American Hero Award. Had I known, I would have upgraded my consignment shop ensemble for something that cost more than a meal deal at McDonald's. Oh, how I wished I had worn my cha-cha heels. I had the opportunity to meet my recipient's coordinator, out of the <a href="http://transplants.ucla.edu/body.cfm?id=83">UCLA transplant center</a>, and also chatted with my coordinator from <a href="http://www.cornellsurgery.org/pro/services/transplantation/index.html">Weill-Cornell</a>.<br />
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<a href="http://www.kidneyregistry.org/about_us.php#management_team">Garet Hill</a>, the Founder and President of NKR, gave a beautiful speech that featured just one of the many success stories of transplants that NKR has facilitated.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-BYna5a5dK7MT6TuK33zpcRfdjHLSrsBA8TKHf589BfKZtGqmguhSvHOOvwIHuicAYIUir_E2I_ADYkwNHxA09m5MEqrsIsJyAKtLf81rqyhelpWi2JVVpmGipWoiuHJwJ23e6DRwGb4/s1600/NKR_living_donors.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="286" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-BYna5a5dK7MT6TuK33zpcRfdjHLSrsBA8TKHf589BfKZtGqmguhSvHOOvwIHuicAYIUir_E2I_ADYkwNHxA09m5MEqrsIsJyAKtLf81rqyhelpWi2JVVpmGipWoiuHJwJ23e6DRwGb4/s400/NKR_living_donors.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Garet Hill (center), pictured here with eight of the donors.</td></tr>
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Award presentations followed, recognizing individuals and organizations exhibiting an extraordinary commitment to saving and improving the lives of those suffering from kideny failure through paired exchange. I just plagerized that entirely from the program. Last but not least, all the donors were honored with the American Hero Award. Woo hoo! Check it out, it's actually aesthetically pleasing, unlike the slew of bowling trophies lining my mantle.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiriChxxXqgZ1gOuAw1VzO1XOo0Up2gA_-Lr_h2a_ifVrtVlj7E-_ABDv9xC76qrwoIM02zdgDDmmE7WUl_DxW9v-NF1tTEDqvlm3n6fWrmbZ2ix16X9fcfWPfni83TjBbqXfpc0DA71Fw/s1600/american_hero_award.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiriChxxXqgZ1gOuAw1VzO1XOo0Up2gA_-Lr_h2a_ifVrtVlj7E-_ABDv9xC76qrwoIM02zdgDDmmE7WUl_DxW9v-NF1tTEDqvlm3n6fWrmbZ2ix16X9fcfWPfni83TjBbqXfpc0DA71Fw/s640/american_hero_award.jpg" width="288" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">All 11 donors were presented with this award. </td></tr>
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I was so moved, and felt touched that the NKR recognized us for what I feel is not an achievement, but an opportunity. Not everyone is blessed with a clean bill of health that would allow them this experience. The National Kidney Registry was a significant factor in the seamless process of my donation experience. Diane's presence in my life before, during and after my donation made for a beautiful experience that isn't always the case with a lot of kidney donations. NKR is an informative, organized and passionate organization that has facilitated 276 transplants since the program started in 2008. I urge anyone that is considering being a donor to make their first step a visit online to their <a href="http://www.kidneyregistry.org/index.php">website</a> and register.<br />
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Thank you, National Kidney Registry, for this beautiful award but more importantly, thank you for being there for me during my donation.<br />
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Until next time... The monsoon seems to be over and summer is just around the corner. Happy girl!angela (stimpson) cuozzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04409096131820027642noreply@blogger.com9