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January 6th, 2009 I finally got discharged from TGH. Home after all this time.

For the past 4 days I have used this time to settle in at home, and spend time with Martin, Scarlett, and the rest of the family. The first day was very hard, as I just learned to walk the stairs and was not sure if I would be able to do so at home. But things got better each day, and these past few days have been strong, and quite amazing.

Today my Scarlett reached out for me, for the first time, and though I still can't lift her due to rib and chest pain from the surgery, it was such an incredible thing to experience. My daughter and I seem to fit like mother and daughter, and no amount of time, and illness, and hospital time will change that.

I feel like now I am ready to start to tell my side of the story. It seems like when I was far gone, the paper and the news told their version and my family's. But where was I during all that time? I have lots to say both pre and post operation, and I am going to start to write. I want to be truthful, and tell it how it is, and though the outcome is such a miracle, the ups and downs of transplant (how it was for me) is something I want and need to share. It make take me 5 posts, it might take me 20. but there is lots to write, and I can't wait to share.

I want to thank everyone, again and again for the support on the blog, the house, the hospital. For the cards, well wishes, presents for the whole family, the food made, the emails, the texts, the calls....and on and on. I cannot thank everyone in person, even personally, but here I thank everyone. I feel like it was not just me in that operating room, it was the hearts, and prayers of so many people, and my great city Toronto. I am immensly flattered, as my lung transplant is one of 100 last year. Including many people that I know, that are just amazing.