Today my beautiful lungs turn 30… Kari would have been 30 today.
I wonder who she would have become, and what she would have been like… If I judge by the people who surrounded her – people who surround me now – I think she too would have been pretty amazing.
Every year since I’ve known of Kari – Laura and I have flowers placed on her grave in Algona, Iowa… This year I had a little scramble because the flower shop I always use was destroyed by fire last April – a few of the girl’s moms offered to place our flowers for us.
I think it’s kinda beautiful that my kidney’s mom placed our flowers on Kari’s grave. Alex’s mom offered, and I took her up on it… Tessa’s mom offered too. I know I would have had no shortage of people willing to do this for us. Alex’s mom placed an arrangement with 13 roses and a card – my card read:
Thursday, March 7th, 2013
Happy Birthday Kari!!!
I was with #15, #12, #9, #8, #7, #4 & #2 last weekend!!! And the kidney your buddy #7 gave me is just amazing – I think that last May, my lungs reached down and gave their friend’s kidney a hug. I wonder how much longer I’ll be breathing with the gift you gave me because of Alex… I don’t think I noticed how much my failing kidneys were hampering me. With your beautiful lungs and Alex’s beautiful kidney, I can climb 100 floors every day – with ease…
It was an amazing weekend – I wish you were here with them – but I guess, in a little way, you were. I barely get to see them because it’s just too hectic – but I know it’s more important that they see one another. They’re here to celebrate and remember you, and climb with me. I think it’s beautiful that, after almost 13 years, you are still getting them together.
I never knew you and I miss you… Happy Birthday… My beautiful lungs are 30 today – I never imagined life could be this good. Thank you.
Love, Lungs & Laura
