Rounds Inspirational Journeys

Surviving A Double-Lung Transplant: 'Life Is Good' by  NPR STAFF Here is a truly inspirational story that is full of hope for those of us who have received transplants. Enlarge StoryCorps Nan Graham spoke with her son, Howell, about his recovery from lung-transplant surgery in Wilmington, N.C. text size  A   A   A July 22, 2011 As a child, Howell Graham was diagnosed with cystic fibrosis, a genetic disease that often impairs lung function. By his late 20s, Howell would lose his breath doing things as routine as brushing his teeth. So he underwent a risky operation — in 1990, he had a double lung transplant. And today, Howell, 49, is one of the longest-surviving recipients of that surgery. Recently, Howell and his mother, Nan, talked about a few moments when it seemed like he might not make it. "I remember waking up from the surgery being on the vent [a ventilator], and seeing this absolutely beautiful brunette nurse," Howell s...

Just a quick post.  As you all know, we have been going to A LOT of Irish Dance competitions lately.  Well, a few weeks ago Hannah earned all of the first she needs to move up to the next level.  Unfortunately, she has to wait until January to do this, but, it does mean she has qualified for a solo dress.  We have been looking at dresses non-stop, but finally found the perfect one for our Hannah.  I just wanted to share with all of you. Hannah's New Solo Dress Hannah loves it and can't wait to wear it for the first time. God's blessings to you all!  Nancy

As a "retired" woman, I have discovered that gardening truly is a wonderful retirement past time.  I love being outside, listening to nothing but nature, planting things and nurturing them until they grow.  It is so rewarding, I never knew. I wanted to share what a great help my sweet Zoey is to me. She starts out alert and ready to get some work done. As time goes by, though, her head gets a little droopy. She tries to keep her eyes open to appreciate the beautiful flowers I have planted.  But by the end, she dozes off and leaves me to work alone. Don't you love my garden helper?

The Affordable Care Act, signed and passed in March of last year, holds many benefits for those both pre- and post-transplant. While you may already be familiar with some of the Act's immediate benefits, it's in your interest to understand how long-term initiatives may improve your healthcare coverage in the future. General benefits to look for If you have been denied insurance due to a pre-existing condition—such as a history of transplant or kidney disease—the Act is creating ways to help 1,2 : • It removes lifetime coverage limits and sets more reasonable annual limits • As of September 2010, it eliminated pre-existing conditions as a reason for denying coverage to, or setting high premiums on, individuals up to 19 years of age • Effective 2014, it will eliminate pre-existing conditions as a reason for denying coverage to, or setting high premiums on, individuals 19 years and older Your options until 2014 3 Most significantly, the Act has created...

I just wanted to say congratulations to the winners of the 100,000 hit contest!  Your cookbooks are on the way.  Thank you for all of your love and support!  Nancy

Here is a typical afternoon at our house.  Notice who is laying on the dog bed.  Completely spoiled rotten!  We sure do love our little cat, though, and isn't our sweet Cracker a good sport?