I came up with this title about two weeks ago. At the time I was feeling weak and tired, a continuation of what has been happening with my kidney transplant from July 1987.
I began hemodialysis last Wednesday. My family and friends stand strongly with me that this was the right decision, as difficult as it was for me to accept.
This transition to hemodialysis was an unavoidable wall I heading head-long toward. My kidney function had continually diminished gradually and the slide had to stop to protect my health. It was unavoidable. I was tired, weak, and carrying a heavy weight of fluid – the first dialysis run I did of two hours removed two litres of fluid, more ahead to be drawn out slowly.
But that’s not why I am saying “Please Don’t Let me Die, Until I’m Dead“.
You see Two weeks ago I was thinking that sometimes people dealing with health issues can be excluded and shelved as a person.
These were my thoughts two weeks ago that I wrote down.
- I am retired, but only from work, not from life. I am still contributing to my community, I volunteer and I even do seasonal work that adds to my income.
- My 60th birthday looms just days away but I am not avoiding challenges. I am going to keep challenging myself and choose challenges that I am NOT certain to succeed at. The uncertainty makes the win special.
- I am setting goal to smile and laugh more every year.
- I am a seasoned toastmaster yet not seeking out opportunities to speak. I am a Toastmaster to fully be myself, I will open the door to new speaking opportunities.
- I am not settling for less, I will be positive to others and myself and supportive to my own health.
- I will not stop living until I’m actually dead, so please don’t treat me like I’m dead already.
Me and Annick, who is friend and advocate for Registration for Organ Donation
Now two weeks later and these words I wrote down then are even more meaningful, as I strive toward better health while succumbing to the necessities of medical treatments.
recent pictures with my son in the back yard
DEAR READER: I am a devoted fan of many bloggers who are living their lives without regrets and stretching their strengths and experiences. I want to encourage you to do the same – don’t sit back too comfortable, Live today, and tomorrow and you don’t stop living until you are really dead.
Please comment, I am learning always and I want to know what you think and your ideas and suggestions on what I can improve.
Life and Random Thinking 
https://polldaddy.com/js/rating/rating.jsGood title. I’m fond of saying, “I’m not dead yet” to people who try to tell me not to do whatever it is I’m planning to do. Hope the dialysis continues to go well so that you can live your life to the fullest.
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Thanks i hope to stay healthy and receive a transplant soon. Dialysis is respite but not perfect
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https://polldaddy.com/js/rating/rating.jsI’m coming up on the 2nd Angelversary of my husbands death….Im doing my best to live my life out loud for the both of us….
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Bless you as you journey and no one can take away the love and memories of your husband
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I love your positive attitude. I just turned the big 6-0 myself and this year has not been a healthy one for me. Staying positive can be challenging so I admire your outlook.
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Late happy birthday! I believe we share outlooks!
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https://polldaddy.com/js/rating/rating.jsHang in there. Good to know there is a treatment that can help you to regain your health.
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Temporarily yes, a stop gap. 50% of people on dialysis waiting for transplant die waiting.
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https://polldaddy.com/js/rating/rating.jsBest to you, my friend :)) I’m happy you’ve found a new therapy, and hope it helps!!! I like your thoughtful list, especially the line, “I am setting goal to smile and laugh more every year.” I strive for the same :)) My horses and I have been blessed with some awesome rides this summer, a recent ride inspiring the following. Enjoy the journey you’ve been blessed with — your son is beautiful. Full of life and love :)) Dawn
https://soulhorseride.wordpress.com/2018/09/20/the-life-of-my-dreams-i-believe-in-magic/
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Best to you also 🤗Dawn. I appreciate your response and I am imagining those rides in beautiful fall sunshine!
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https://polldaddy.com/js/rating/rating.jsYes — fall beauty abounds :)) The moon graces our night skies, and we are all blessed to be a part of this thing we call Life on Planet Earth, filled with: Wildlife. Family. Friends :)) I’ll ride and care for the horses — and share those rides with you :)) We’ve been talking now for a few years, and I consider you a friend! Please stay well through all your trials. Blessings to you and your family :))
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I did a beautiful ride (bicycle) ride with my son yesterday. I am positive that you would’ve loved the view from the sage hills down onto Okanagan lake. Take care my friend
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Wonderful :)) Yes, our rabbit brush is blooming yellow right now, and waves to your sage hills. You take care, too, and stay in the pocket of love :))
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Wow, that’s some serious shit to deal with. I love how you’re focusing on the positive and enjoying the moment!
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OH Dave, I wish you well and hope and pray you will receive good news on the transplant front very very soon. Take good care of you and know we are thinking of you and rooting for you.
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Deep sigh, I am concerned and hopeful both.Thank you for your thoughtful message. They do help.
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God Bless you and be encouraged. Take care of yourself.
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Bless you for your message. I am encouraged.
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https://polldaddy.com/js/rating/rating.jsBeautiful post ~ inspirational, and the title is perfect. The photos mirror your positive words as well, great to see. Take care ~
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Thanks, I appreciate detailed feedback on what readers liked, the title is strong and interest provoking
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so when exactly was your birthday David?
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October 7, coming up fast. My last birthday party with guests was on my 40th but this year we are having a party. It feels like good timing to gather friends around me.
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yes,that will fill the spirit with life affirming strength!
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Your catchy title caught my eye, for an inspiring read. Can’t pass by, without mentioning a free online booklet authored by my brother and his wife, John and Cherie Hemmingsen – their inspirational give back to organ donors, caregivers, and benefit of an optimistic view, like yours in the fight. “Gifted Life: a Healing Odyssey” http://www.giftedlife.org. He is coming up on his 5th birthday, post bone marrow transplant. Thank you for this site.
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My story or journey continues. My successful kidney transplant lasted from July 1987 until September 2018 -31 years! Hemodialysis now three times per week, I am hopeful 2019 will include a final transplant to keep me healthful.
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My prayers for them, will include you. You need everything possible going for you!
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Thank you for your writings and sharing of your life. I like how personal you are and the desire you have to live life to the fullest. I trust that your desire to have a healthy future will come to fruition soon. May this Easter be a time of renewal, and strengthening, not only of your body, but your personal faith in our divine creator. May it also bring a recognition that with Him, by His Holy Spirit, your heart will not be troubled, but comforted and encouraged. Every continued blessing.
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Dear Claudette, this Easter will have a special significance as many prayers come to fruition. I Appreciate your prayers for myself and my family. I hope that spring will speak to you. This really is a season of optimism as new life is demonstrated via nature. I love watching birds and my son has planted many plants including sunflowers. It is so wonderful that from small seeds they eventually tower over the yard. Have a super day. I apologize for being slow to reply.
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