At 20 years old, I experienced one of the scariest moments of my life. I lost vision in my left eye due to two degenerative diseases impacting my corneas. I was placed on a transplant waiting list and months later, received my first transplant. I knew the physical recovery would be difficult, and it was. But I was somewhat prepared for the physical limitations and help I would need following surgery. What I wasn't prepared for was the mental impact that receiving such a precious gift from someone's loved one would have on my life. Someone had made the decision, that upon death, their loved one could be a gift to someone else. And that someone else was me... I struggled (and still do) with "why me?" and "am I worthy of such a gift?" and "why do I get a second chance and yet their loved one doesn't?". So many emotions and guilt that over the years I've had to learn to transition into gratitude and thanks.
Twenty years after my first transplant, my right eye cornea had deteriorated to the point of needing a transplant. Although physically easier the second time around, due to advancements in technology and my own experience, the mental and emotional weight of such a gift remains a burden that I am grateful to carry. I could never say thank you enough to my donor families. Their decisions continue to be life-changing decisions - for me and so many others.
I walk to say, 'thank you' and to show support for the staff making this life-saving work possible. I walk to encourage others to consider organ, tissue, and eye donation in their life journey. I walk because I can see and take in the beauty of everything around me. Please consider walking alongside me, supporting LifeShare, and considering the gift of life.
