Fall 1999 ~ Newsletter
Cystic Fibrosis and Depression
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Dropping By To Say Hello!
by Staci Barker
Hello everyone! Boy, how these past four years have flown by. So much has happened in my life since July 14, 1995, the day of my miraculous transplant. I got married to the man of my dreams in May of 1998 and graduated with honors from the University of Alabama in Huntsville. My degree is in Sociology, and I have had an article entitled, "Stigma Management and Cystic Fibrosis" published nationwide in a deviance journal. I am very proud of this accomplishment. Also, I am equally proud that my husband and I adopted a wonderful puppy from the shelter, who we named Lily. Currently, I am continuing my studies down at Tuscaloosa at the University of Alabama's Graduate School of Social Work. Classes have begun and keep me busy. My concentration will be focused on working with health agencies, and I have to work with the terminally ill. None of this would have been possible if I had not been blessed with the opportunity to undergo a transplant (not to mention the brave sacrifice of my two cousins, Michael and Paul, who unselfishly came to my rescue!)Life, however, is not without its concerns and complications. I have been hospitalized four times since my surgery. Each hospitalization has been a precaution due to either pneumonia or gout (due to taking my anti-rejection medicine). Usually the gout is dormant; sometimes, though, it can be quite painful. I am presently having to deal with the possibility of some chronic rejection in my left lung lobe. I am taking higher doses of steroids to combat this and it seems to be working. I am continuing with my life, my studies, family and goals. The last four years have been the most productive years in my life. I have not once questioned the decision. Even with the occasional setbacks, I know that my survival was based on my strength, which will continue as I incur new trials. I owe it to myself and my cousin's to bask in the sunlight, smell the flowers, and reach for the stars. Would I do it all over again if given a third chance for life? Doesn't life have too much to offer to decline the invitation?