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Don’t Sweat The Small Things

What I’ve Learned About Life After My Husband’s Transplant

We get caught up in the day to day life & will let the small things get to us. We argue over something stupid or get upset cause someone did something. But what we don’t realize is it’s actually something we shouldn’t sweat over.

Six months ago my husband & I decided to finally tie the knot. 5 days later, we received a call that would be life changing. This is what I’ve learned about life after my husbands liver transplant.

We knew my husband was on the list for transplant, but never imagined it would happen so soon. At least I didn’t. That night the phone rang at 2:00 in the morning asking if we would come in as a back up for the liver. Of course we went in.

transplant story

There are a lot of things that come in to factor when you’re on the list for an organ, but you end up waiting some time before knowing if you will be the one or not. Almost 24 hours later from arriving at the hospital, a nurse comes flying in saying “It’s go time. They are on there way up to get you.”

Suddenly life freezes. Things are about to change. I remember hugging him tight with tears falling down my face telling him how much I love him. I don’t remember calling his parents or my mom. I kind of remember my brother telling me everything was going to be ok. That was about it.

Sitting in the waiting room was the HARDEST part. I didn’t care about anything but my husband at that moment. We had a some what private cube area but you could still hear others around you. Listening to someone say they were up saying cause so & so didn’t take out the garbage. It’s none of my business but seriously, you are going to be mad over garbage?

While sitting there praying everything was going smoothly, it made me think about what is worth arguing about or being upset about. Why are we not enjoying life more?

You have one life, why not enjoy it.

Fast forward a bit. Surgery went well. Extremely well. We were in the hospital for just 10 days before coming home. At this time, we decided it would be best for me to quit my job to stay home & take care of my husband. (6 months later he’s back to work with zero restrictions)

A few weeks later I came across something that said there was a pound class at our community center. It was just once a week & thought I’d give it a try. This was completely out of my comfort zone. 1) Trying something new & 2) Doing something by myself. But after watching what my husband just went through, I thought I really need to start enjoying my life more.

I went to my first class nervous as could be & absolutely loved it. I loved it so much that I signed up at our local YMCA & started taking other classes. I’ve tried numerous classes by myself & now I’m not shy or nervous when I try something new.

I’ve started pushing myself into trying & doing new things. And it’s been pretty amazing. I’ve started volunteering at an organization that means a lot to me. I’ve gone to women’s events & met some pretty amazing ladies.

Through all this, I’ve learned how to open my eyes & enjoy life. We don’t always realize what we are missing out on until we have an eye opening moment. Don’t wait until you have one of these moments. Get out there & start enjoying life. Don’t sweat the little things

Jennifer Perschke

Hi! I’m Jennifer. I’m an espresso addicted, wine loving, sarcasm user who swears like a sailor, but I do love Jesus. I’m a boy mom of two, ages 5 & 15 that keep my hands full.When I have a little spare time, I enjoy crafting. (I may or may not be addicted to Pinterest!) I love reading & long walks, around Target. I may have an obsession with shoes but most days you will find me in a pair of Converse. I am excited to be a part of The Lake Country Mom & share my stories & experiences. You can follow me on instagram or on my blog. 

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