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 

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 :)

 

 

 

 

 

T minus 2 days until surgery!

This may be my last blog post until post surgery.  Tomorrow we officially start preparing for the transplant on Monday morning. Our last meal will be breakfast and then we will be on a liquid diet for .... well awhile!  Then we have to start the fun part ..... the prep .... yuck!

I'll be starting the prep at home and John and mom will be heading to our apartment next to the hospital.  My sister, Holly, is going to pick me up after work and we'll head to the apartment together.

I would imagine tomorrow night is going to be interesting!  Being at the apartment, knowing the surgery is early the next morning .... I mean it's here!!  It's time!!  It's a little surreal to be honest.  I'm starting to feel some anxiety but nothing over the top.  I feel like, so far, I'm keeping it in check pretty good!  I've been meditating and doing yoga when I need to, which always helps.  

My mom and I were talking last night and I know she is nervous because she will be taking care of John and will not play an active role in my recovery.  I know that has her a little uneasy.  We were talking last night and I told her that one of her roles was to keep John's spirits up!  She looked at me and said, "who's going to keep your spirits up?"  I told her that I have an amazing army of supporters behind me and I would be just fine.  That's really how I feel!  I have had so many people reach out to send love and support .... it's just incredible!!  

We are both going to come through with flying colors I am certain of it :)  We are both in great hands!
I'm ready to get this going and start the healing process.  

Time to save a life!

I will most likely not be updating my blog until I feel well enough.  If you want to follow the updates on my progress, the days following the surgery, you can send me a friend request at Facebook.com/heather.dalton.754

See you all on the other side!!  Don't forget to dance it out Monday morning where ever you are! If you're on FB, please tag me in the post :)

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! 

Final blood draw .... take 2!

After going to the lab a few weeks ago, for what I thought was my final big blood draw before the surgery, I found out was really just a dress rehearsal.  After my blood draw, I actually didn't have the best reaction.  They sent me a package in the mail with everything I needed to collect the blood, overnight  itback and all of the paperwork needed .... well so we thought!  
I not only had to get blood drawn for my upcoming surgery, but I also had to have blood drawn for my regular Dr. as well.  I decided instead of going twice, I would just knock everything out in one trip.  I had to fast for one set of the blood work so I went in the in the AM.  It ended up being 8 vials they needed and they said that  was a lot after fasting. 
As the day progressed, I started to feel some side effects like:  Drained, achy, foggy and could not regulate my temperature for a few days. Once I finally started to feel stable again, my transplant coordinator called and said there was a paperwork snafu and I had to do it over .... sigh.  This time I didn't have to fast though so I wasn't too worried about it.  I guess this is still the easy part right?  So back to the lab!

This time they only had to draw 4 vials and I didn't have any kind of side effects.  Being overnighted to Detroit with love :)  I've given more blood over the past 3 months then in my lifetime!  Amazing how the body can regenerate and heal itself.  To know that you can remove half an organ and have it completely regenerate itself is fascinating to me.  Even more a reason to donate!

Haven't gotten any calls yet that there are any issues with this sample so here's hoping all is good!  One week from Sunday I'll be flying home to start this epic journey!  Be sure to follow along :)

Another big pre-surgical day today!

Today marks another big pre-surgical date!  Today both John and myself had to get out last blood draw done before the surgery.  We did not have to go at the same time but it did have to be done on the same day.  Come to find out, we were getting our blood drawn around the same time :)  They will be checking various numbers, levels and tissues, just to make sure nothing has changed.  This is such a delicate procedure, that things can change up until the very moment before the surgery!  The lady who drew my blood, was a little short in the sense of humor department and looked at me like I was nuts when I asked her to take my picture lol!  I told her no worries, I'm a master selfie taker BAM!

 

 

Then it was straight to FedEx where this will be overnighted to Detroit.  I have no doubt as we progress that things will continue to fall into place, like they have since moment one.  This is out of my hands and much bigger than myself at this point.  I know that I will be pulled in the right direction and protected.  Still feeling very calm and confident .... wow is that pretty cool! 

 



A Complete Strangers Act of Generosity

Hi everyone I hope you all had an amazing Thanksgiving!  I always hope that everyone spends time daily expressing gratitude for the things they are thankful for but especially on a holiday.

I was surrounded by wonderful friends this year and I felt extremely blessed.  My holiday traditions have changed over the years but I carry them with me in my heart and my goal is to duplicate the feeling it creates for all of those around me, where ever I may be!  My fondest memories include:  Loved ones, the smell of good food, laughter, joy and lots of gratitude.  I fill my home with that all of the time but go that extra mile around the holidays.  I love to open my home to all and make everyone feel happy and fulfilled! Although I am now far away from my home, I am carrying on our traditions and sharing them with people I care about.  This year I hosted 7 friends for what was an incredible night of good food and even better company!

 

 

Now for an amazing heart warming story, of a complete stranger showing an act of selfless generosity.  My good friend, Meg, came over for Friendsgiving and she handed me an envelope and said I have a story for you.  She proceeded to tell me that a co-worker had asked her what her plans were for Thanksgivng, so she told her about our Friendsgiving dinner.  She started telling her about me and it led into my story of my upcoming surgery.  She shared with her how I was preparing give half of my liver in January to save my father's life and my thoughts and feelings surrounding this major decision.  She said by the time she got done talking they were both crying (which doesn't surprise me, Meg can be FAR too generous lol)  Her friend came to work the next day and handed her the envelope I was not holding in my hands.  She told Meg she was touched by my story and just wanted to contribute something small to show her appreciation.  I opened up the envelope and inside was a nice note along with .... a $100 bill!  I was completely floored that a complete stranger would be so touched by what I'm doing that send me this.  To her I know she thought this was small but to me this was so HUGE!  I was instantly humbled and just felt overwhelmed with gratitude.  It's my passion to inspire and connect with others and when this happens ... the feeling can be profound and overwhelming.

 



Many people have called me a hero and I really don't see it that way.  I feel like I have the opportunity to save someone's life, who I just happen to care about a great deal, and it's an honor to be called to do so.  There is no coincidence that I am only number 8 out of 80 to be selected to have this surgery this year.  When you are put on this planet to impact lives and help others live their best lives ever, you never know when you will be called.  Your only task to be ready when you are :)

Making BIG decisions!

Let me ask you this .... Have you ever had to make some really big and scary decisions that were life changing?  Have you ever had to consider the worst case "what if" scenarios?  Have you ever had to determine if someone had to be your voice, who it would be?
Of course it's something we all should think about, but it's also something you often don't think about unless you are forced to. 
This was my first time filling out one of these.  Have you ever filled on out?

It's a pretty humbling time to picture yourself in trouble and determine in writing what you would want for yourself.  It's also a very odd feeling at the same time because much of my personal development has been to release control and live in the moment and this is asking me to create scenarios that may never become real.  There are actually two different roads you can take in this form.  One where YOU make all of your decisions and they must be obeyed and the other you appoint someone you trust to make the decisions if need be. 
I find it interesting to think that I could make a sound decision, before the situation even exists, but when it matters most I would be unconscious .... seems a little odd but some people want to make sure their wishes are carried out.  Shoot most people won't even donate their organs after they die! 

I find it comforting to know that I have someone I trust to listen to all of the information possible and make the best decisions based on that.  I mean that's quite a thing to have to ask someone too!  "Would you be willing to end my life if need be?"  You hope of course it never comes to that but it's still a conversation you have to have ... a very real conversation! 
When you are faced with major decisions and conversations like this, you're reminded of how fragile life is.  It's a total blessing because you are reminded to make everyday special and leave your mark in some way.  Don't let one day go by without doing something special! 

What is my BIG news? Time to save a life :)

So I know that I have been eluding for about a week now that I was going to be announcing major news and I would be documenting my journey right here on my blog.  Well the time has come to actually share the news, which I am learning can sometimes be the hardest part. 
Putting something big out there, for others to know and see, makes things very real.  What I'm being called on to do, is no easy task, but in line with everything I stand for.  Before we go any further first watch this so we can be on the same level here ....

 

See I told you it was major news!!  I'm still processing all of this to be honest with you but sharing this is a taking it to the next level.  I can feel my self accepting this now and starting to put in place what I need to, to keep my mind, body and spirit healthy. 

The three days of testing were a whirlwind.  I went into this, not allowing myself to get ahead of everything and create anxiety, which is exactly what the former me would have done.  I told myself that being a match is very rare, less than 10% to be exact, so if I am meant to do this I'll know ... and now I know!

I look back now on my journey and realize I was in training for something much greater than improving my health and starting a business.  I was in training for this!  All of the tools I've been given over the past 3 years have equipped me for this moment and I'm ready :)

 

I would love all of the support and positive energy I can get!  As I said, I'll be documenting this life changing journey on my blog and all of you are invited as well. 

If you want to receive email updates, you can do so in the top right corner of my blog.

 

2015 is already shaping up to be quite a year!



The time has come to blog!

Hi everyone - Truth time ....

Well I have to say, I've totally neglected my blog!  Many of you who have opened a business on social media may relate to what I'm about to say.  I've taken some time to determine what platforms I most relate with.  I've dabbled on most of them Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Blog, Youtube, etc.  At the time blogging started to seem like busy work for, although it's always been very therapeutic  for me. 
I have made the conscious decision to devote myself and my energies to my blog, because it's what I feel a connection with.  It became clear to me recently through a personal experience I'm going through.  I am about to go through something really major soon!  Something I knew I wanted and needed to share with others and I knew immediately I wanted to share my story on my blog. 

Stay tuned for updates and my big announcement soon! To follow me on my life saving journey please subscribe to receive email updates!