Note from Stacey

Felix, thanks for the encouraging article. I guess I should continue planning for retirement at 65, eh? The past month, during the winter break (without classes) has been difficult. Without a daily schedule, my mind wandered temporarily into a blank void and I felt down and lethargic, (except for climbing.) My friend Amelia does energy work and she generously gave me a free session. I mentioned wanting to feel more motivated, and we explored some feelings and goals. It has been a couple weeks and life is really picking up since then. Classes started today and I am indeed feeling more motivated! I feel good learning new skills, being out in the world. I have also been getting out with some friends. On Thursday, I went to a TRIO (Transplant Recipients International Organization) meeting with my friend Marcus. I am the new editor, so it was important that I attend. Friday, I hiked the Stanford dish route (about 3 1/2 miles) with Rhona. It was great to enjoy nature again. Saturday, I coached a lesson at the climbing gym, then worked on the newsletter. Sunday I coached another lesson at the gym, then I spent a relaxing day with Dave…we found a beautiful new park trail called Laurelwood, and then climbed at the gym. I am happy to say I am working my way up some 5.11 top-rope climbs on good days, with rests, although most climbs I can do without falling are rated 5.10a. On Monday, I met with new friend named Christine at Rinconada Park in Palo Alto. Christine’s seven-year-old son Zachary is living on oxygen, and awaiting a double-lung transplant at Stanford Hospital. We strolled around the park and my old neighborhood. I showed them the house that I lived in as a child (Zachary’s age) on the corner of Harker and Harriet streets. Zachary thoroughly enjoyed playing on the swings and going down the slide (with his oxygen tank close behind.) His laughter warmed my heart. He clearly knows how to enjoy the moment. As we walked, he energetically bunny-hopped ahead, pushing the stroller with two tanks in the seat. At the playground, I did some exercising– alking and jogging around the 1/4 mile track. I also tried pull-ups on the playground, and to my delight, I managed one set of five in a row…a definite improvement since the last time I tested myself. In my pre-transplant days, I was able to do 15 sets of five in one day…but this is a good start, and I was pleased. Stacey, from Belmont