Long time, no blog. There has been so much happening it would seem like I would have plenty to say, but sometimes there just aren't words to express the roller coaster of emotions life can bring our way. My own gray cloud hasn't blown over yet, but it has been overshadowed by the unpredictability of life.
My sister-in-law has cystic fibrosis. For those of you who may not be familiar with this disease... "Cystic fibrosis is an inherited disease that causes thick, sticky mucus to build up in the lungs and digestive tract. It is one of the most common type of chronic lung disease in children and young adults, and may result in early death." (Google Health)
My husband's brother, Charlie, died of this disease as a child, and now my younger brother's wife, Deanna, is fighting for her life. It has been a series of near misses and last ditch efforts that have kept her going. Then, two days ago, a miracle...my brother got a call that they had found a donor for her...a new set of lungs...another chance at life.
Saturday an amazing team of doctors not only renewed her chance for life, but renewed the hope of a lot of people who love Deanna and my brother. How amazing! What a Christmas miracle given to us by a family somewhere facing their own loss and grief. My heart goes out to the family of this and all donors. What a selfless act, to give other people a chance to live a normal life.
Deanna's battle isn't done. She needs to heal from her surgery and continue to get stronger. I know she can and will, though. I know that God is great and has been with her and my brother through this entire journey.
Most of us don't need new lungs, but we may need a new attitude, a new perspective, a new direction for our lives. This holiday season, let Deanna's story inspire you to give yourself that gift of hope. Find what you need in your life to make it all you want it to be. It is never too late to be happy...really, truly happy.
