Jim's Health Update!

Today is our last time to go to Miami until August! The doctor told Jim he was "perfect!" That has been his word for the day, "I'm Perfect!" Actually, I think it will be his word for the year......Jim is especially glad I was there to hear it for myself. I believe he feels this is more affirmation of his character than his health - his kidneys are no longer swollen but his head may be.....we have laughed all day!

This photo is of Jim with his sister Glenda who had her kidney transplant 12 years ago and her husband Tom - we have really enjoyed this time with our family - they have been a blessing!!!

Please continue to pray for our family, there are other members of our family with the same illness Jim and his sisters have dealt with and other serious health issues. We have won a battle but not yet the war - we are enjoying the blessing given to us but realistic on the future and what it holds for Jim's brothers and sisters, their spouses, children and grandchildren.

Let's take time to enjoy each other - life is so fragile!

Much love,

Donella

Membership Class

Baptism Service

Jim's Health Update!

Just wanted to keep everyone posted! Jimmy is recovering slowly but doing very well. Today he went to the grocery store and is cooking for all of us - yipeee!!! We have missed his good cooking...

Just an FYI if you should be taking a trip to Jackson Memorial in Miami - BRING YOUR OWN CHAIR to sit in because they have the most uncomfortable seating known to man. Jim's sister, Michelle, found a comfortable place outside next to a homeless man to rest which is also another choice.

Thank you to everyone for all the love, prayer and support we have received!!!

Donella

Jim is home now!

Jim is home today from the hospital and happy to be home! We go back to Jackson Memorial Monday's, Wednesday's and Friday's for the first few weeks beginning tomorrow just to keep up with how he is doing.

I will keep you posted! Much love and thanks to everyone.....Donella

Jim's Health Update!

Just a note to let everyone know that Jim is doing great and we expect he may be able to come home soon - I will keep you posted! Please continue to pray for quick healing and we are so grateful for all the prayers and support we have received ~ God has blessed us in a great way and we are thankful.

Our kids have been taking care of everything at home and at work - looks like Veronica is holding down the fort at the church. Is that a power tie? She makes me proud!

Much, much love to everyone ~ Donella

Only At Jackson Memorial!

Beware of the vending machines which are stocked up by people who don't read or speak English so you are not disappointed as Jim's brother Mark was when he ordered pizza and received french fries instead - I'm still laughing!!!

Jim is in a regular room now and beginning to walk in order to get exercise and build his strength so I believe he will be home very soon - I will keep you posted!

Thanks again to everyone for everything!!!! Much love, Donella

Update on Jimmy!

Dear Family & Friends,
Jimmy was able to sit in the hospital recliner for 4 hours today and is recovering nicely! He was able to get out of the bed very easily and by himself, he is still very strong even after the surgery.

Jackson Memorial has some of the best doctors in their field. The ICU staff is top notch and I am grateful. The rest of the hospital is very third world and makes for a hysterical sit-com. For instance, if you want any information on your loved one who may be admitted they do not have ANYONE you can ask - no information booth, no administration that I have been able to locate but they do have a cleaning lady on the 3rd floor named Laquida who will be happy to assist you on her break (seems she is always on a break) to locate your loved one for you. She will walk you directly to any department even if they are locked or have those large red signs DO NOT ENTER or QUARANTINE AREA - seems Laquida has the authority to go in any section of the hospital including all areas that are off limits. I can hook you up for a pack of cigarettes and Bud Light, and it's well worth it!

I will keep you posted on Jimmy and "Life at Jackson Memorial" - much love to ALL!

Donella

Jimmy Gallo is recovering from "Kidney Transplant!"

Dear Family & Friends,
Jimmy is recovering very well in the ICU and the 2 kidneys that he received are working properly. I feel like it is Christmas and thanking God for this precious gift!

During our 14 hour wait God provided entertainment to help pass the time away - this photo shows Jimmy's sister Michelle and brother Mark performing on the escalator. Fortunately the hospital provided a tranquilizer gun, white jackets and a padded room for their admission. One day I may write a comedy on their entire performance, it was priceless. Laughter is so good for the soul and only God can provide something good during something difficult!

I will keep you posted and thank you for all the love and support during our journey - we are truly blessed......much love to everyone! Donella

Jimmy Now Has 2 Kidneys!

Dear Family & Friends,
Just a quick note to tell you that we received a call at midnight last night because they found a possible match, so off to Miami we went immediately and found out that YES they were and Jim had his kidney transplant today! He was actually given 2 kidneys and the donor was a 48 year old woman. I will give you more details soon but need to get some rest but first wanted to let everyone know and thank you for ALL your love, support and prayers during this journey!

This is a photo of Jim with his brother Mark and his sister Michelle before going in to surgery. They both stayed with me for the next 14 hours and put a smile on my face and in my heart with their humor and for that I am forever grateful!

I will keep you posted on his recovery! Much, much love! Donella