We knew the Nuclear Medicine Renal Function Study on Monday would be the final test. We were told this test would help the medical team determine which kidney they would transplant to Tim. When my phone rang Tuesday morning I couldn’t wait to answer it and find out the news.
The feelings of amazement and elation on Dec. 13 are now disbelief and grief. After the study results were reviewed, I am being declined as a donor. I do have 100% kidney function but my slightly larger left kidney is doing 62% of the work and the right kidney is only doing 38%. The medical team was hoping for something much closer to 50/50. Although I would do fine with the higher functioning kidney, it’s not okay to transplant a 38% functioning kidney into my husband. He needs a stronger kidney.
I so wanted to be able to do this for him. I’m completely heartbroken at the news.
We have to hold to our faith and believe God has a different, and better, plan. For any of our friends with A or O blood type who might be interested in seeing if you are a match and a viable donor, please contact Bali Tucker at the Nazih Zuhdi Transplant Center at Integris. Her direct line is 405-951-8724 and her email is bali.tucker@integrisok.com.
We certainly appreciate your prayers for understanding, patience through this process and a better kidney for my best friend. I had to teach three classes yesterday and attend three meetings. I had to hold it together throughout the day. When I got home last night, we just held each other. We talked about how maybe we should have kept our story more private. I am Verna Busch’s daughter though and I really wanted so much to share our journey and story with others.
Our hope is we were able to shine a brighter light on the importance of organ donation. Our “Once Upon A Time in Elk City” fairytale isn’t ending the way we thought it would but we still believe in happily ever after.
Life Among the Aspens with the Hartleys 
I will contact your/his doctor. Thanks for the contact info. I’m so sorry…I know you are extremely disappointed.
Thank you sweet friend! We do have someone who will start the process Monday to see if he and Tim are a match. God knows exactly what Tim needs so prayers and patience will get us there.
Faith. Believe it will happen.
Hope. Expect it will happen.
Love. Unconditional.
And the greatest of these is love.
Thanks Tonda. I believe it will happen. I’m just still struggling with this. God is using this to deepen my faith.
Diana, thank you for sharing your news. I am so sorry. I cannot imagine all of the emotions you are wrestling with in light of this news. What a roller coaster I am sure! I love that you are sharing the journey in spite of it not ending the way you thought it would. God DOES have a bigger and better plan. Isaiah tells us “God’s ways are higher than our ways, His thoughts are higher than our thoughts.” So I am excited to hear what His plans are for you and your hubbie. I am praying for the perfect outcome. God bless you guys…allow Him to hold and comfort you both as you hold and comfort each other.God’s got this!!
Your words and the word of God do provide comfort. Thank you for the encouragement. There is a better and stronger kidney out there. We’ll find it!
So sorry for this unexpected turn. Keep the faith, I’ll keep you both in my prayers.
Thanks Paulette!