My recipient, and Daddy, passed away last weekend.  Our surgery was in April 2011, so we had nearly six years together post-transplant.  He had fantastic kidney function the entire time, but developed untreatable cancer. 

I'm really grateful I was able to give him a kidney when I did.  He SO enjoyed life.  We were always close, but shared a very special bond after the surgery. 

I'd be happy for anyone who will say a prayer for us (Julia and John) , and for all donors and recipients.

Love, elephant

I am so sorry to hear of your Dad's passing. I have been following your posts since you donated. The bond you shared with your Dad was so palpable from all your posts. Hope the memories you have will be a comfort to you. What a beautiful gift you gave your Dad.

Julia and John in my thoughts and prayers!

Sherri

So sorry.   :(

Glad you had those 5-6 years with him, though.  (I'm an atheist, but I do still wish you well  :) ).

     You gave him a great gift, and you were gifted by him. Treasure that always. God grant him peace and joy, and you also.
   Fr. Pat

Thank you sherri, CK and Fr. Pat for your kind responses. 

Daddy's "extra" six years of happy life are a joy to me as a daughter and an honor for me as a donor. 

Love, elephant

Best wishes, Julia. Take care. We're thinking of you.

You gave your dad - and yourself - a wonderful gift of six more years together. I'm sorry for your loss, and will keep you, your dad, and all donors and recipients in my thoughts.

So very sorry for your loss, elephant.  A father is so very special to a daughter. Prayers to you and your family and I am sure you made his last years much happier with your gift.

Dear Clark, OrchidLady ad Michael, 

I appreciate the support and thoughtful words.  Yes, we sure had some very happy family times that I treasure. 

Love, elephant

I'm very sorry for your loss. But your gift allowed him to have "bonus" time that I'm sure you appreciated having.

Dear Julia,
a prayer for you and your dad...and a prayer for you to look forward to the day when you will see him again and embrace him one more time.

I pray that God return to you a generous measure of the love that you have expressed on here and I'm sure elsewhere.  Each day is a gift and God used you to extend many gifts to your dad.  A privilege...

Dear pilot, Papa and Pastor,

Thanks for the prayers and kind thoughts!  Daddy was buried last weekend, on a lovely sunny day with flowers and green grass all around.  And with a little bit of me, one that fulfilled an amazing purpose.   

love, elephant

Elephant:  A thought: grief hurts, loss hurts yet it seems to me also a testimony to the nature of a special, loving relationship--in your case you and your dad.