Liver Limbo to Transplant

Hello, I'm Melissa and I recently had a liver transplant at University if Washington Medical Center. Let me tell you, it has been quite the journey! I am raising money to help cover the costs of my total (including pre and post) transplant, recovery and ongoing treatments.

My five-year battle with liver cancer began with a liver resection in early 2019 followed by open heart surgery to treat congestive heart failure. I then received targeted radiation treatment for a recurrence of the cancer at the beginning of 2021. I was placed on the transplant list in August 2021 and was a candidate for transplant 5 times until January 23rd of this year when a young woman blessed me as she passed on.

I never imagined this process (affectionally referred to as my Liver Limbo) to be so complex, nor did I think it would take nearly two and a half years to come to fruition. While there have been many ups and downs, I still remember when I was being prepped for my first potential transplant and I was told the donor's organs were nonviable. I felt so deeply for the donor and his family, as not only had they just lost a loved one, but their final wishes could not be fulfilled.

In the five weeks of post transplant recovery, I have been working to honor each potential donor's sacrifice, by staying on top of my rigorous medication schedule while getting as much healing rest and exercise as possible. I love walking and running, and am looking forward to participating in the Snoqualmie Valley Half Marathon at the end of August. At this moment my training consists of what I like to call the Poll Stroll, which is done in my alley!

You all know my love for family and friends. I have been extremely fortunate to receive care and support in many forms from visits, to cards, texts and phone calls. I can not wait to get back to sharing meals, laughter and just good times with all.

Thank you for visiting my page. I miss all of you and am thinking of you even while I’m recovering. I’m truly grateful for any help you can offer, prayers and donations alike.

I am blessed through it all! Love and hugs to all!