What Do You Mean I'm Human?

Well as many of you now know, I donated half of my liver to my step father on 1/26/15.  Since then, I really can't complain about anything progress wise because I am doing great!  They say when you hit that 2 month mark you feel like a new person and boy were they right!  I noticed so much happening at that 2 month mark.  I noticed myself getting stronger, a lot more energy, more clarity, increased endurance ... I was really just starting to feel like ME again! 

With that being said, I have still really been listening to my body and taking it one day at a time.  I started easing into my workouts at the 5 week mark, but they were very gentle and modified.  I never pushed myself past my limits or went against the advice of my doctors.  I knew where my limitations were so I pushed them slightly but never in a reckless manner.

Each week, I push myself a little more and have been on a really great path - feeling just a little stronger everyday.  My surgery was done laproscopically, so my abdominals were not cut and I've never had any issues with my incision, so in these aspects, I've been extremely lucky!  I've had no issues with doing any of my kick boxing workouts, interval training or hiking.  Believe it or not, the most challenging practice to get back into has been my yoga.  So many people think yoga is really gentle and it should be easier then those other high intensity workouts but I beg to differ!  Yoga is an incredible workout for strength and flexibility.  Every move focuses on your core and toning your body.  The core work, bending and twisting has been where I really need to listen to my body, modify and go at MY pace.  With that being said, yoga also makes me feel my best!  It helps me to connect to myself and reduce pain I have from other issues.  It really helps me on all levels, so I've been eager to get back to it. 

On Saturday, I completed a great yoga session that had me feeling wonderful and I went on about my day.  I was out all day walking around and felt completely fine.  That night I came home and was sitting on my couch doing some work on my computer.  Out of no where I started to get a good amount of pain around my incision.  Even though I had done yoga hours ago, it was showing up now.  I'm sure it was from all of the stretching and there being some scar tissue present that I need to work through. 

Since I haven't had any set backs like this, it was a humbling reminder that my body is still very much healing and I need to respect that.  I've backed off my activity, other then some minor walking, for a few days so I can focus on healing.  I received the message loud and clear :)

It's also time to brag about some very special challengers - who made some really great progress last week!!  You guys know me, there is nothing I love more then to brag about the people around me who are working really hard to change their lives!!  Nothing is more inspiring to me :)  This week we celebrate these 3 incredible women:

* Ashlie - Dropped 1 whole pant size!  Ashlie has been working so hard to implement healthy habits into her life and also eliminate others that are no longer serving her.  She walked a total of 15 miles this week and has also been putting a lot of time into getting her vegetable garden ready.  Nothing better then being able to go into your backyard to pick your fresh produce!  Keep up the awesome healthy work girl! 

* Tianna - Yep this isn't the first time you're hearing her name lately and certainly not the last!!  Tianna is charging her health right now after having her precious son in October.  I admire T so much because she has really not had an easy road.  She had a rough pregnancy, and a rough post partum.  She is working through a lot of health obstacles to get back to feeling like her again ... and even more awesome :)  She is following her meal plan, getting in her workouts and plugging into her accountability group and is now down 8.7lbs!!  Girl you are KILLING it and I'm SO proud of you!!

* Aimee - Last, but definitely not least, is Aimee.  Aimee has my heart this week, not gonna lie!  Aimee has been investing in herself big time!  She has seen a lot of progress but she has also seen a lot of frustration and self doubt.  She is getting to the root of what she needs to work on to free herself and that's the hardest work of all!  However, the hardest work is the most worthwhile and Aimee's hard work is starting to pay off!  She just started a new adventure with T25 and is loving it!  She is also eating well, investing in her personal development and checking in with her accountability partner regularly!  She is setting herself up to win :)  I'm so proud of all of the hard work you've done to get her Aimee  - don't you ever stop!!

Are you wanting to create YOUR success story but don't know where to start, please reach out to me at heatherchristine312@gmail.com or Facebook.com/heather.dalton.754

You don't have to do it alone and it doesn't have to be so hard :)

Radiating an Incredible Power Today!!

Today is just one of those days that required a blog post!  Since my surgery, my energy has shifted in a profound way and it's pretty amazing.  Today marks 2 months since my surgery, and with this marks a big moment for me.  2 months is the time frame they kept giving me for everything.  "You should be close to 100% regeneration in 2 months, you will regain your energy around the 2 month mark, you will be ready to workout around the 2 month mark, you can drink alcohol and Shakeology at the 2 month mark" .... as you can see it's been all about the 2 month mark!  Well that's today and they were not kidding.  I feel like a new person who is just radiating this powerful light & energy!!  It's no coincidence that I had a Reiki appointment scheduled for today, although I didn't realize the significance at the time.  It was a super profound session that gave me so much clarity and confirmation.  Today she had me draw cards and I drew 4 of the most powerful cards in the deck that are right in line with everything that is going on in my life.  I have no doubt in my mind that life is about to change in a big way for me this year and I couldn't be more ready for it!!

After my session I was on a whole other level just beaming!!  I just can't wait to see where my life takes me and what it has in store for me.  From the glimpse I'm getting, I'm being rewarded and blessed in so many ways.  I'm so humbled by where my life has led me, the people that have come into my life and the opportunities & experiences I have before me. 
I knew that donating half of my liver would impact my life, but I had no idea of how powerful it truly would be.  I am receiving so many signs right now that I am on the right path, and that I have so many epic journey's on the horizon!!  Bring it on life :)

My New Volunteer Adventure

Some of you may have seen my post on social media earlier regarding a meeting I was going to.  I also eluded to new things being on the horizon.  Let me start by giving you a little back story.  Volunteering has always been a part of my life and my nature.  I have done various things like candy striper at a hospital when I was younger, donating time at pantry's or soup kitchens, trips to donate time helping those less fortunate, outdoor work, etc. 

It was always irregular and very random because I was typically working a lot of hours and short on time.  When I started my business I told myself, "As soon as I'm able, I'm going to make volunteer work a regular part of my routine."  Not only does giving back help me to feel amazing but I also want to make an impact.  I decided in the Fall that it was time to start looking for somewhere I wanted to volunteer.  I knew I would wait until after I was healed from my surgery but I wanted narrow down some places I was interested in.  I looked at all different kinds of places and opportunities, but nothing called out to me.  I put out into the universe that I was looking for an opportunity and asked for guidance to point me  in the right direction.  Well a few weeks ago ... the answer came.

I was doing some research and stumbled upon something familiar from my past.  The more I started to dig and do some research, the more I realized that this opportunity really had everything I was looking for.  When considering opportunities I really wanted:  To be in a position to mentor and motivate others, teach others about health and wellness, make an impact on lives and the community, have the opportunity to get outdoors, have the opportunity to try new things and something that felt rewarding.  This opportunity had it all! 
The organization I will be volunteering for is .... Girl Scouts of America!  The meeting I had today was an area director and the girl I will be running a troop with.

 

 

 

This struck me as the right opportunity for a few reasons.  One, I was involved with this organization as a young girl and I have really fond memories, especially when my mom was my troop leader :)  I was a Daisy, Brownie and Girl Scout!  I remember we had a lot of fun but we also learned a lot and gained many life tools like:  Sharing, giving back, being independent, the importance of exploring, positive self image, etc.  What I love most about this organization is what it stands for and the message it's teaching young women.  Statistically speaking, girls who engage in Girl Scouts are less likely to engaged in bullying (on either end), have a more positive self image, are more independent, are happy and balanced, sociable, and much more.  Not only do they learn these skills at a young, impressionable age, but they carry them into life as young women who have the skills to change the world!  I am so excited to play a role in helping young women see that they are beautiful just the way they are, to approach the world with love, to be a unique individual and follow their hearts. 

I am looking forward to starting this new positive adventure!

 

I will be starting as a Daisy Co-Leader, which is making me nervous and I see as a good thing all at the same time lol!  I'm nervous because of the young age, they will all be kindergarteners!  What's good about it is, they will be too young to have any expectations :)  It will be a great opportunity to get my feet wet and learn.  Ultimately I see myself mentoring young women (middle school and up) and possibly getting involved in their journey's program, where they go on various adventures.   Exploring, mentoring, inspiring, giving back ... right up my alley!  Daisy's here I come ... wish me luck!!

 

 

 



Setting an Epic Stretch Goal

Have you ever had one of those years where you just KNOW it's going to be a HUGE year for you?  You can just really feel that big things are about to happen?  Well I am on the verge of one of those years and I'm super stoked about it.  I'm even more excited to share it with all of you, in hopes of inspiring and motivating as many people as possible to do some really cool stuff! 

The year started out with a life saving journey, I mean what a way to kick of 2015!!  As many of you know, I donated a portion of my liver to my step dad on 1/26/15.  I knew that this would greatly impact my life, but I didn't and still don't fully know to what level.  What I do know is, SO many blessings have already come my way since this all began.  I have met and connected with so many incredible people.  Complete strangers that reached out and donated money to my Go Fund me page or sent kind words to support me on my adventure!  Hundreds of people danced for me, followed my progress and posted daily to motivate me ... I was just completely blown away!  It's because of all the support, my commitment to my health and my drive to be balanced mind, body and spirit - that I've been able to recover so quickly!

It's mid March and by the end of this month, my liver will be for the most part, fully regenerated.  Wow the body is so amazing isn't it!!  I'm feeling stronger, healthier and more alive everyday!  I feel like I'm radiating with positivity, love and great karma it's totally awesome :)  I feel like setting some big - stretch goals to see what I can do this year! 

6 weeks post surgery, and I'm easing back into my workouts, but also pushing myself enough to make sure I know where my limits are.  I'm setting my sights towards the end of the summer and I'm setting a really EPIC goal. 

My bestie, Meg, won a lottery spot to hike the Enchantments in WA.  She's been wanting to do this for a few years and this is the year it's meant to be!  I'm setting a goal to take this hike with her, and 7 other homies, to celebrate her birthday!  It's the beginning of Sept. so this is a stretch goal for me but I think I can do it!  I've always wanted to do a trip like this, it's an experience of a lifetime and definitely fits into my theme for 2015!!  It would be a 3 day, 18 mile round trip, hiking and camping adventure.  You gain quite a bit of elevation but the views are sick!! 

I'm going to start training by continuing with my strength and interval workouts, as well as getting outside to do some walking, hiking and soon .... the stairs!  My goal is to start hiking at least once per week, so I can build my endurance and then do the stairs 1-2 times per week.  And when I say stairs, I mean stairs!  The Seattle area even has it's own book hello!!

I'm looking for others that want to set stretch goals too, so we can hold each other accountable!  What do you say?  Is there something you've always wanted to do, but just don't know where to start or just haven't started?  Let's do something epic together! Email me at heatherchristine312@gmail.com

Challenger Spot Light

This week I want to shine a light on someone I am so inspired by on so many levels!  
This weeks Challenger of the week is Carlos !! :)
Carlos is not only a challenger but he is a long time friend and holds a special place in my heart!

Carlos and I attended elementary school, middle school and high school together and I can honestly say he has never changed.  He's always had a huge heart and hung out with everyone, not just a particular group.  He is compassionate and caring for everyone! 

Carlos and I did not remain close friends after we graduated high school but just like many people, stayed in touch through Facebook (and probably even Myspace for a minute!)  When I became a health coach, I would reach out to him and let him know I was here to support him if he ever did want to start his health journey - although I never pushed him.  I followed him as he tried various things and I celebrated his successes when he had them.  One day he reached out to me and we connected on the phone.  We talked for well over 1 hour about the life he envisioned for himself and what he wanted to accomplish. 
I made a pact with him that day that I would support him and stand by his side until we reached that goal and together we haven't looked back!  What I admire most about Carlos is he NEVER gives up! Just like anyone else, he may have bad days or bad weeks, but he stays connected to why he is doing this and gets back on track!  We have set some awesome goals together and I have no doubt in my mind, that he will reach every single one of them!

Carlos has lost over 40lbs this past year and more importantly, is learning and implementing some healthy long term habits.  He is changing his life and inspiring those around him too. 
He wants to hit the 100lb weight loss mark by this summer and I KNOW he can do it!  Let's all get behind him and support him on this amazing journey.  I know I won't miss a moment of it :)

I'm behind you all the way buddy! 

What's the low down on sodium?

I'm sure you've heard lots of talk about being sure to read your food labels to monitor for sodium levels.  If you haven't, you're hearing it now and you really should!  So many processed foods are full of sodium, especially frozen meals.  Salt is used as a preservative so it typically higher in frozen meals or canned foods.  It doesn't stop there though, it's in everything!  So why should we care about our sodium levels?  Consuming higher levels of sodium will raise your blood pressure, aka hypertension, which is the leading cause of death, disability and cardiovascular disease.

So how much sodium should an adult consume per day?  Humans, 2 years and older, should not consumer more than 2,300mg per day (and yes you should be monitoring your children's food as well).   Guess what the average American consumes in one day .... 3,400mg!!  Wow - that's over 1,000mg over the recommended serving! No wonder cardiovascular disease and stroke are the leading cause of death and costing America nearly 4 billion dollars per year!
* Please note that if you fall into one of the following categories, you should only be consuming 1,500mg per day:  Over 51 years of age, African Americans of any age, people with high blood pressure, diabetes or kidney disease. 

Another place you will pick up lots of extra sodium is dining out.  Keep your dining out in check to avoid high sodium, calorie and fat levels.  Don't be afraid to speak up and ask for light sodium, butter or oils when you are dining out.  Most chefs will accommodate your requests. 

So we've covered recommended sodium levels per day, reading food labels and being conscious when dining out.  Now let's go in your home - what kind of salt do you use and have you ever looked at the sodium content?  For the longest time, I was reading food labels looking for sodium but not looking at the sodium on my salt - it didn't even dawn on me.  Hey we're constantly learning right!

Here's what I found out ...

Here is an ordinary, popular, over the counter table salt. The sodium is at 590mg, per 1/4 tsp.  Can you see how if you're trying to stay under that 2,300mg per day, it can start to add up real quick?

Here's another one.  This one is just a generic, store brand, table salt.  This one is not much better at 560mg per serving.

 

 

This next one I wanted to add because it's pretty popular right now.  Not only that but it has a lot of health benefits as well.  I'm referring to Pink Himalayan Sea Salt.  Where most salts dehydrate your body, this salt has benefits to it.  Some of these benefits include:  Rich in Iodine, creates an electrolyte balance, reduces PH, reduces acid reflux, promotes proper metabolism functioning, strengthens bones, lowers blood pressure, helps intestine absorb nutrients, improves circulation and helps eliminate toxins.  All of these awesome properties, and it sill comes in with a lower sodium content at 380mg per serving.

 

 

If you want the straight up lowest, best quality, table salt here it is.  At 280mg per serving, this comes in at the lowest sodium option.  You should be able to find this at most grocery stores and I believe I've seen it at Costco.  I did have to go to a nicer grocery store to find it.

 

 

 

 Hopes this helps everyone to be a bit more sodium conscious! 

The Word of the Day is Progress!!

Yes that's right, my word for today is progress!  Despite this cold still lingering on and on, I can feel myself starting to turn a corner.  I am still really congested and go through periods where I have very little energy.  Today was a little different though, today was special.  Despite my cold, I heard that little voice in the back of my mind saying, "It's time, today should be your first workout day!"  I knew my body would tell me when it was time to start easing back into it and today I got the message.

I wasn't sure which workout was going to call me first and it was one of my all time favs, PiYo!  For those of you who have never tried it before, it's a fun and dynamic combination of yoga and Pilates.  You're in constant movement and Chalene Johnson totally kicks your but.  I have been feeling the need to stretch and strengthen, so I figured this would be a good place to start.  I also really like that there is a great modifier that you can follow to meet your level, which was heaven sent and boy did I need it.  I modified just about everything and even made up a little on my own to compensate what I couldn't do.  I kept reminding myself that this is step one of what will be a whole lot of steps.  Just take one day at a time!  I also managed to get in 30 squats for a challenge my accountability groups are doing.  It felt really great to get back in with my groups and accomplish my first workout post surgery - no matter how modified the workout was!

 

I know I have to go slow and take baby steps to get back to where I was physically.  This journey is really going to force me to grow in the patience department.  It's also going to force me to learn a new speed, slow.  I am looking for all of the positive lessons I will learn from this journey and I'm looking forward to growing in those areas.  It was clear after todays workout that this phase of my journey is going to be slow going.  Today starts day one of my training to strengthen my body in many ways.  Today I start the physical journey ... I can do this!

 

 



 

Celebrating and Down and Out at the Same Time!

Yes a funny title I know but that's exactly how I'm feeling these days!  I'm celebrating a significant date, yet feeling totally down and out all at the same time! 

Let's start off with what I'm celebrating!  So many of you have been following my organ donor journey and yesterday marked a big date. It was the one month mark since the surgery.  I did a lot of reflecting yesterday on all that has happened in one month and it's just astonishing!  Honestly the surgery feels like it was just yesterday and at the same time months ago, if that makes any sense.  I can remember every detail so clearly, which makes it feel so recent.  However, when you are going through something major like this, you are forced to slow WAY down and take minute baby steps.  You celebrate every small thing you accomplish, which are the very things we take for granted like:  Being able to stand up on your own, being able to walk on your own, being able to go to the bathroom without assistance, etc.  It's these tiny moments that all add up and make it feel like it was months ago that all of this transpired.  One month ago, I donated part of my liver to save my step fathers life.  One month ago, I embarked on the scariest, yet most significant, journey of my life.  One month ago, I found out how much strength and courage I had.  One month ago, I risked my life to save a person I love.

It was also my first time having major surgery so I had no idea what to expect, recovery wise.  I spent many months meeting many donors and hearing their stories.  Every story was different but one theme was very common - The healthier you are going in, the better and the more positive you can be the better.  This always gave me a lot of comfort because these two things I've got on lock!  I've been a healthy lifestyle coach, for three years now and I've completely transformed mind, body & spirit.  I have finally understood the magnitude of my transformation.  Not only did it change my health & my life, it also put me on a path to finding my passion to help others and is allowing me to live a life I had never even dreamt of!  Most importantly it prepared me for my greatest calling yet.  3 years ago I never would have been cleared to be a live organ donor, mentally or physically.  I now know I have been training for the biggest event of my life and something that was so much bigger then what I was envisioning.  I think it's because of my mindset and health that I have recovered so quickly.  I took one day at a time, was patient and gentle with myself and listened to my body.  I would say within 2 weeks I was pain free and in 3 weeks I was flying back to Seattle.  I continue to see progress daily and I take time to recognize it, not matter how small it is.  It will be awhile before I'm back into my old workouts but that doesn't bother me.  I'll start slow and before I know it, I'll be stronger than I was before :)

Now some of you are probably saying "what is there to be down and out about then?"  Well as many of you know, I was SO careful when I went home to Michigan not to get sick.  I didn't go out anywhere, I was careful of who I exposed myself too, did not see many people post surgery, wore a mask flying home, sanitized my area, etc.  I was super careful and within 1 week of being back in Seattle, I got sick.  Pre-surgery my health routine really kept me on track and I rarely ever get sick.  Even when I do, I get over it really quickly but not this time.  Since a large amount of my energy is going towards regenerating my liver and my immunity is down, it's kicking my butt big time.  Many of you have reached out to me because I haven't been as present on social media or even updating my blog ... this is why.  I have felt so drained and beyond exhausted.  Plus I've been doing a lot of sneezing and coughing, which really is no fun with my incision and abdominal healing.  I've been doing as much resting as I can and pumping fluids, vitamins and healthy food.  I'm limited on the amount of things I can ingest, in both over the counter meds and/or herbal remedies while my liver is regenerating, but I have a few things I'm taking.  Just have to wait and let it run it's course.

Thanks for all of your concern and wishes.  I appreciate every one of you!  Please continue to send me some good mojo and positive healing vibes so I can kick this cold once and for all!

Recovering

So I had this vision in my mind of recovering at home and while I was recovering, I'd write all these wonderful blog posts .... not so much!  The last thing I've felt like doing is blogging!  I've been really tired, drained and reading makes me even more tired.  I'm starting to get on the computer a little more and more but I still can't do a ton.  So basically blogging during recovery has so far been an epic fail!
That's ok though, what I have succeeded in is listening to my body and giving it what it needs to heal.  I've been resting and eating quite a bit - hey it's hard work to grow a liver and takes lots of energy!

One thing I have been thinking a lot about is other donors and their journey.  I have connected with so many amazing donors from all over the country, all have had very different experiences.  I know that my experience could have been far different if I were not a healthy lifestyle coach.  I went into this surgery, the healthiest I could possibly be mind, body & spirit!  I worked on my core and endurance before heading into this.  I also managed my stress and anxiety with things like:  Meditation, Reiki, body work, reading and connecting with nature.  I can't even fathom going into this surgery not healthy!  I knew it would be a long road after but I was physically and mentally ready for it!

 

 

I was also ready to see what doors this opened for me.  I strongly believe that our greatest lessons and growing sessions come from our hardest obstacles.  I just knew that this would open more doors for me, I just didn't know how or what.  I'm starting to see a reason I was called to do this (other than to save my step fathers life of course).  I already know that I was put on this planet to help as many people as possible live the best lives they possibly can.  Now I see even more doors opening to people that need more help ... donors and recipients of transplants!  I want to help as many people as possible head into surgery as strong as they can possibly be, physically and mentally.  I also want to help people post surgery, get back on their feet!

I now have first hand experience on just what it takes to get through transplant surgery, as painless as possible.  Sure there will still be pain and obstacles, but the healthier you are the better!

 

I am currently 2 weeks post liver transplant and have gotten a clean bill of health.  Not only that but I am pretty much pain free and can fly back to Seattle anytime I want to.  I have no doubt, this speedy recovery has everything to do with my health and positive mindset!

 

I can help you too!  Reach out to me so we can chat about your journey!  I'd love to meet you and learn more about you.  You can reach me at Facebook.com/heather.dalton.754 or heatherchristine312@gmail.com 

EPIC Day .... WOW!!!

As I promised, here is my blog post to describe my totally epic day yesterday!  I just couldn't put it into an Instagram or Facebook post because the emotions and breakthroughs were just too big to sum up in a few sentences. 

Yesterday I experienced massive emotional shifts that were very profound and overwhelming.  My day started with the most powerful Reiki session I've ever had.  An old friend of mine, Katherine, came over to give me some of that awesome energy healing.  It was a profound and emotional experience for both of us that left us emotional and just blown away.  I felt so much being released and moved .... it was just so incredible.  After my session I truly felt my channels flowing and I could just tell it was going to be a really important transitional day for me.

My sister came over and we had such a great day together.  We had an awesome talk and, of course, she did some pampering!  I got my feet and my back rubbed - I'm a lucky girl :) 
This experience has had such a positive impact on my family, it's pretty incredible!  It's brought all of us closer together and it's inspiring people (in and out of the family) to want to change their lives for the better.

 

When I came home, I expected to save my dad's life.  What I didn't count on was impacting SO many others and having a this many people reach out to me just to tell me how I've impacted their life.  It's so humbling and at times overwhelming!

The emotional release continued well into dinner where I had a great talk and another release with my aunt.  My Reiki session allowed me to release a lot of things I've been storing in my body and I felt such a HUGE shift in my healing! 

Never did I dream that this surgery would change my outlook on life so much and impact others to the level it has.  I feel beyond blessed and full of gratitude that I was chosen to do this! I tell you one thing ... it tells me I must be doing something right :)

I capped off the day with a totally epic moment in my business and on our team.  Our guest speaker last night was none other than Beachbody's CEO, leader and visionary ... Carl Daikeler.  I mean it was like the cherry on top of the best sundae I've ever had! 

Yesterday was just the most awesome, amazing day ever and I can't wait to see the doors this continues to open for me and the people I have yet to meet and help!  I want to help as many people as possible live the best lives they possibly can.  I can already tell that this life changing event is going to allow me to help more people than I would have ever imagined!

I'm baaaaaaack!

Well my liver transplant surgery was one week from today and I'm feeling blessed on so many levels.  The surgery went well for both myself and my stepfather, although he definitely has a long road ahead of him.  After the surgery, he was in ICU for a few days and I went straight to recovery.  It was really great when he finally came to the recovery wing because we were right down the hall from each other.  We took walks together, visited each other, watched our shows and shared Italian Ice treats.  It was really awesome having someone there who knew exactly what I was feeling and going through and we were able to support each other.

I would say that the first 4 days were the most challenging pain wise.  I was up walking the day after the surgery and I find that's what helps most.  I would say by day 3, I could at least get up in the middle of the night and stand next to my bed on my own so I could stretch out a bit.  Nights are still the most challenging because you get pretty tight and I'm also having back spasms.  I will say though, taking small steps forward everyday.

I have no doubt in my mind that going into this healthy and positive has played a crucial role in my recovery!  I can't imagine going into this surgery with a weak core.  Everyone is really impressed with my progress and I'm pleased as well.  The goal is to be ready to head back home to Seattle by the 17th.  I have my follow up visit on the 11th and we'll see what my Dr. says.

I want to take a moment to shine a light on the real heroes, which are ALL of the people at Henry Ford Hospital in Detroit!  AMAZING is the word that comes to mind.  Never did I feel like I was a number or just a patient.  They literally treated me like family and bent over backwards for me.  My surgeon Dr. Abouljoud is just an incredible human being.  He cares so much about everything he is doing and it shows.  I'll never forget being wheeled into the operating room and having him hold my hand, assure me that everything was going to go awesome and  tell me he was right here for me.  That treatment did not stop once I got to recovery.  The nurses on my floor were beyond spectacular and I left that wing with many friends.  I just can't speak highly enough about this program and all of the people involved. 

 

 

I also have to take a moment to talk about the mind blowing love and support I've received from friends, family members and people that don't even know me.  To those of you who have contributed to my Go Fund Me page, participated in the Dance for a Healthy Heather and have sent me awesome messages, I can't tell you how much it means to me and how much it has helped me get through this.  I literally feel like I have an army behind me.

 

The biggest of thanks goes to my family because they are just so awesome!!!  They all surrounded me and John and have supported us on so many levels.  A HUGE shout out to my sister Holly who has really stepped up and has been my rock through this.  She has been right there to help me with everything I need and to help keep me calm.  Sis you are my bestie and I love you with all my heart!!

 

Another massive shout out goes out to my Aunt Mary and Uncle Terry who have taken me in and are pampering me through my recovery.  It feels great to be out of the hospital with no more wires or tubes, able to shower and eating good food!  I love and appreciate you guys so much!!  Here is my first night home, after my first shower in 6 days and eating my first meal at home!! Talk about heaven :)



 Now that I am continuing to feel better, I will be back on my computer and updating my progress more.  Feel free to follow along right here on my blog or head over to my Facebook page, where I have been documenting my entire journey!  Facebook.com/heather.dalton.754

 

Again thank you for all of the love and support!  I would not be here without all of you :)

 

 

 

 

 

Dance for a Healthy Heather Monday!

Hi everyone,
As you know, this coming Monday the 26th, I will be heading in for transplant surgery.
I will be donating half of my liver to my step father :)
I have to check into the hospital at 6am and before hand my sister, mom and myself will be having one last dance party at 5AM!
I want to radiate love and happiness heading into that hospital and what better way to do that then a good dance session!
But I have an even better idea .... I want all of YOU to dance too!!! So wherever you are on Monday morning when you get up, dance it out for me!! What a way to celebrate saving a life and starting this epic journey!!
I know I will receive so much positive energy from all of your dancing :)

So here's what you do:
* Monday when you wake up, grab a partner or dance it out solo style!
* Take a photo or video, post it to FB and tag me in it :)

Who's in?

To get added to the event page, please add me as a friend on Facebook at Facebook.com/heather.dalton.754 and shoot me a message to tell me you want to dance!!

It's my goal to get Ellen Degeneres involved .... well because she's my fav :)  Spread the word! 

Hospital orientation day - 5 days and counting!

Well things continue to get more real!  Today I had my orientation at Henry Ford Hospital to prepare me for the big day on Monday (and of course get more blood drawn).  First I met with my surgeon Dr. Abouljoud, who went over everything with me in regards to what I can expect.  He also showed me a super cool 3-D image they had made of my liver.  They sent my scans to Germany and they produce a 3-D image of my liver, complete with different colors to mark all the different veins and what not.  This way when he gets in there, there are no surprises.  He already has his road map and knows where to cut!  It was great to connect with him again because the last time I saw him was the day I was tested to see if I was a match, and that was a whirlwind!  I also met with my transplant coordinator, Nemie, who has been completely awesome during this entire process.  She went over my pre-op ... fun stuff routine (let's just leave it at that lol!) and also gave me a tour of the hospital.  Being a person who likes details, today made me feel much better.  I know what to expect and the different areas of the hospital I'll be in.  Here is a picture of me, Dr. Abouljoud and Nemie.

 

 

I also got to meet with a pharmacist and nutritionist.  The nutritionist walked in and said, "well I've looked at your chart and talked with Dr. Abouljoud and this is going to be a very short meeting!"  It's so reassuring to hear from all of the Dr.s that my health is awesome and so is my routine.  In fact, all of the Dr.s I've met with have said they wish they could clone me because I'm so healthy and happy :)  They told me to not change any of my habits post surgery .... well except for one  ... and it's a HUGE one!  I have to wait to drink Shakeology again until my liver regenerates  (app. 2 months) talk about the bummer of the century!!!  I have been drinking it everyday, sometimes twice per day, for 3 years now!  It's such a HUGE part of my healthy routine and it's going to be SO  hard to go without it for that long.  People have asked me, "well yeah but I thought Shakeology was supposed to be so good for you!"  That's the thing ... it IS so incredibly good for you!  However, it's a super dense and concentrate dose of nutrition that is completely all natural.  So it's made up of herbs, vitamins, super foods, etc.  There are some potent herbs that you should not have post surgery because they can thin your blood or cause clotting.  Also, since I will only have half a liver, that is a lot of herbs and vitamins to process which could over tax my already taxed organ.  Going without Shakeology could actually be more challenging for me then the actual surgery lol!

 

Marching onward to the big day on the 26th .... please send me lots of love and positivity :)



Pre-op Visit Scheduled!

You know the day is definitely getting close, when you receive your pre-op schedule in the mail!  I fly home to Michigan this Sunday and then the 1 week countdown begins!  On the 21st I will be at Henry Ford for my pre-op visit and I'm actually looking forward too it.  I think this will answer some of the questions I'm having, allow me to tour the facilities I'll be staying at, as well as connect with my surgeon again.  I only met him on the day we were doing all of the testing to determine if I was a match.  That day was such a whirlwind filled with lots of information, meeting with different departments and lots of people.  I'll definitely be looking forward to connecting with him again.  I'll also get to meet with my transplant coordinator, who is totally awesome, along with a nutritionist and pharmacist. 

 

 

I made a request to have my picture taken with the surgical staff  before we get started.  I told them this was important to me for a few different reasons.  One,  I'm documenting this journey for myself and my family to have forever.  I want to always be able to look back and share this with others and to remind me that I made the ultimate sacrifice to save a life and to continue to live the best life I possibly can!  I also want to shed a positive light on live organ donations because there are so many others out there who are in need and who are waiting!  There are so many people out there who are really sick and are waiting for a miracle.  By making the choice to donate, I'm not only saving the life of someone I care about, but I'm also giving someone else on the list, the chance at life too! 

The other reason I wanted to get a picture before hand was because I am a big believer in energy!  I do a lot of meditating, yoga, breath work, etc.  I also attend things to help me balance my energy like sound baths and Reiki sessions.  I believe that the better the energy in the operating room, the more smoothly things will go during and post surgery.  I want to share a moment prior to surgery with everyone that will have my life in their hands.  I want there to be a good, positive vibe in the operating room before they cut me open. 

 

Per usual, Henry Ford has been awesome and my coordinator said, "Heather, I'm going to make that happen!"

 

The countdown begins ......