Mitch at UNC Hospital : Update

I wanted to write a little update; Mitch is not up to it lately. Mitch was admitted down here at UNC last Wednesday after shortness of breath which was not controlled on home oxygen.

Mitch's respiration is severely declining; oxygen use is up every day, and ability to tolerate activity is way down. We are puzzled at the rapid decline. There are no answers.

Although Mitch spoke about having a while to make this decision of re-transplantation, the decision seems to have been made for him- there is no time to think- we need him back on the list ASAP and are hoping for the best.

The transplant team came in this morning and talked with him briefly about the testing that had to be completed to resubmit the paperwork to the insurance company, and sign the final informed consent, to a treatment which we now know much more about when we were in this position last year- it's result unknown and the process abundantly harsh and torturous for the patient and compassionate bystanders and loved ones. However, the alternative is not an option, it never was.

I hope you can support our choice and cheer Mitch on to do what he does best: survive and inspire. I am eternally witnessing a graceful spirit who never gives up, always finds beauty and love in the presence of hardship, and never thinks about himself before others. It is an honor to write on his behalf and be by his side on this very challenging and nearly impossible quest. My best friend of 16 years and husband of 10 years is the most amazing, beautiful, and inspiring person on the planet, I say.