The Greatest Commandment

And one of them, a lawyer, asked him a question to test him. "Teacher, which is the great commandment in the law?" And he said to him, "You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and will all your mind. This is the great commandment. And a second is like it, You shall love your neighbor as yourself." Matthew 22:35-39 (RSV)

It was a number of months ago that I learned that Aunt Lois was in need of a kidney as her health has been in decline for quite some time. Upon learning this I wanted to help her if I could. In a strong way, I felt called by God to help.

I spent October 2-3 at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester going through a battle of tests. The doctor that I met with on October 2nd stated that I will receive a more thorough examination than I ever have in my entire life. He was right! I will spare you the details of all the examinations, however, I wanted to share with all of you the results.

For a 31 year old, I am very healthy. However, according to the doctor, I am about 35 pounds over weight. For a 6 foot tall and 210 pound man, he says if I were a little more heavier I would be considered obese. I thought he was crazy but he did say that my liver is beginning to show signs of fat deposits which is attributed to being over weight. Exercise and less sweets will be a part of my regular regimen from now on. He stated that it was important to remain in good health after donating a kidney because obesity can cause diabetes which damages the kidney's. Message received!

The doctor does not see any reasons in my health that would prevent me from donating a kidney for Lois. He and the committee will meet in two weeks on October 17Th to make final recommendations whether or not my kidney has a great chance of being accepted by Lois' body. So please pray hard for God's will!

I also met with one of four possible surgeons to discuss the procedure. They will go in below my navel and make an incision about 3 inches long. There will also be two holes poked in my side for the camera and instruments. She stated that the surgery would last about 80 minutes to remove my kidney and close. She stated that I can resume all normal physical activity after 6 weeks. I could resume working a desk job within 2 weeks. All good news!

According to my donor coordinator, the surgery will be done sometime between November and the first of the year if I am the approved donor.

All of your prayers will be appreciated.

God bless you all!

Chris