Seeing as I will never be able to donate another kidney for as long as I live the title of this post is very fitting.

I thought I would sit down and say a word or two about this experience and what this whole thing means for me. First, I want to say that I am very proud to be a part of this life changing experience on behalf of Doug. When I first learned about Doug’s condition years ago I could hardly believe it, how could such a great guy have such a hendering illness I thought to myself. I could not shake the idea that I needed to do something to help, even if all I did was go to the transplant center at U.T. to see if I could be a donor. I always had in the back of my mind that I would in fact become the donor, but hearing that I was accepted and that a date had been set brought a sense of relief to me and to everyone I’m sure.

I am so happy that the surgery was a success and that healing can now take place. I look forward to Doug’s future and I am honored that God used me to play a part in getting Doug’s health and well-being back on track. Although I am reminded that I have done something great, and I believe that, I think its more important to remeber that Doug has a new kidney and that is more great than any act that I have done. Doug is the real hero in this story. Doug now has an opportunity to live a more normal and healthy life, and everyone can agree that his life will not go to waste but will in fact be a full life in which he will continue to bless others and do great works in this and other communities.

I don’t think it is necessary to go into the details of everything that has transpired because this blog has done a great job in keeping up with all the events as they unfolded. But I am proud to report that I have had a BM, so no more worries on that end. I would like to take this opporunity to thank everyone for all there thoughts, prayers, and support through this challenging time. Knowing that so many people took an active interest in both me and Doug is very humbling. I don’t believe that I have ever had so many people think about me at once before, and that is a cool feeling.

In closing I would like to say that I think it is great that I had the opportunity to practice a little individual responsibility. I am a firm believer in the notion that things are best left up to communities, because with in community you can find true love and compassion. I saw a need, and by the grace of God I was able to be apart of the solution. That is the kind of world I hope to live in, where activities are not controled by litigation or laws, but by love for your fellow brother.

Peace