from Karin

Since you are reading this from my point of view, I will say that the decision was most difficult.  We went for Gary’s semi-annual appointment at Tampa General Hospital in February expecting the usual pulmonary function tests, blood work, walking for 6 minutes and then meeting with the doctor.   But this meeting felt different when we began the visit with the pulmonologist and a lung transplant coordinator.  We were shocked to have the doctor start the conversation by saying that Gary had to make a decision.  His health had gradually worsened over the years and apparently the clinic thought he was ready for the transplant evaluation.  They felt that he should do this before he gets sick enough that he would be unable to have a transplant.  I think we were both shocked beyond belief because although there were a million questions, we found ourselves speechless.  That was all about the meeting that I can remember…the drive home was a bit quiet. 

Over the next month I would occasionally ask Gary about his thoughts and if he decided to get the evaluation or not.   Gary weighed everything out and in April decided to have the evaluation.  We waited for insurance approval and the hospital to make arrangements for the 73 tests that Gary would undergo to make certain that his body and mind where healthy enough to undergo such a traumatic and life changing surgery.  

Long story short Gary passed all the necessary tests and found his body to be in great shape – except those lungs.  I passed the tests from the psychologist and social worker to make certain I could be his care giver.

Gary wanted to wait until after we visited Michigan and he told the family about what he was doing before getting listed.  On Friday, July 13, 2012 at 6:40 p.m. Gary was listed on the United Network for Organ Sharing database.  We now await the call for transplant.  The expected wait time is 6 to 9 months, but the bags are packed and Gary says he is looking forward to taking me dancing when he gets new lungs…I can’t wait!