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Happy2Bhere
Member
Username: Happy2bhere

Post Number: 2622
Registered: 02-2008
Posted on Sunday, July 12, 2009 - 09:36 pm:   Edit Post Delete Post Print Post

I have been corresponding with a lit'l lady in Ohio for more than 5yrs. She rec'd her heart transplant here in Houston by the very same surgeon who performed mine, Dr "Bud"Frazier. She was #34 out of 1,330 total transplants at St Lukes Hospital since their transplant program first began many years ago.

Doris Skinner's heart story here:

Texas Heart Institute and St. Luke's Episcopal Hospital
to Celebrate 20th Anniversary of Patient's Heart Transplant

HOUSTON (Nov. 12, 2004) – Physicians, staff and volunteers will gather Monday, November 15th to celebrate the 20th anniversary of Mrs. Doris Skinner's heart transplant. Mrs. Skinner is the 11th known person in the world to reach the 20-year milestone, and the second patient at St. Luke's to do so.

Doris Skinner was no stranger to heart disease. She was born with an hereditary cardiomyopathy, a condition that runs in her family and that took the lives of her brother and sister. Still, she was managing well with her condition and in her early 30's decided to adopt a child with her husband, Michael. Just three weeks after adopting her newborn daughter, Erin, Mrs. Skinner suffered a heart attack. In less than 15 months she was near death from heart failure. She was on the waiting list for only ten days when a donor heart became available.

"I was very sick at that time and I know I wouldn't have lasted much longer than ten days. You know back then, transplants were still pretty much a new thing and I didn't know what my prospects were. I just wanted to live long enough after the transplant so my daughter would remember me. She'll never forget me now!" laughs Mrs. Skinner.

Mrs. Skinner's life could have taken a very different turn if not for the intervention of her internist, who would later become her brother-in-law.

"I was in another hospital in Houston, just getting worse and worse. I remember watching the Fourth of July fireworks downtown from my hospital window. I thought they would be the last I would ever see. But then my internist took me to see Drs. Edward Massin and Mark Schnee and they got me into St. Luke's," she explains. "Now I drag my husband to Fourth of July celebrations every year just because I'm thrilled to be able to see fireworks again."

Since her transplant, the Pearland resident has moved to Ohio. A chemist by profession, she returned to school to get her degree in accounting. She's been working full time for the last eight years and she's been promoting organ donation since her transplant.

"It's overwhelming when you think about it. I've had 7,305 days full of opportunities to get up every morning and make the most out of every day. And every day is an incredible gift made possible by the gift of a grieving family. It's very profound," says Mrs. Skinner. "I live a very normal life and all of that is sweeter because of the transplant. I'm grateful to have hot flashes and wrinkles!" she laughs.


Ol' Bob
Texas Bob
http://www.cafepress.com/Happy2Bhere_2
Heart Transplant
performed Jan 28th 1991
http://www.heartandcoeur.com/story/bob_story.php
Happy2Bhere
Member
Username: Happy2bhere

Post Number: 2623
Registered: 02-2008
Posted on Sunday, July 12, 2009 - 10:32 pm:   Edit Post Delete Post Print Post

Another of my heart pals, Howard Little lives in Muskogee Oklahoma. His surgeon was also Dr "Bud" Frazier here in Houston at St Lukes Hospital over 22yrs ago. You can see a pic of my pal Howard below. Howard was #148 out of a total of 1,330 transplants since transplants first began at St Lukes many years ago.
20th anniversary

Ol' Bob
Texas Bob
http://www.cafepress.com/Happy2Bhere_2
Heart Transplant
performed Jan 28th 1991
http://www.heartandcoeur.com/story/bob_story.php
Sarah's mom
Member
Username: Sarahs_mom

Post Number: 133
Registered: 02-2009
Posted on Wednesday, August 19, 2009 - 10:48 am:   Edit Post Delete Post Print Post

Hello Bob.
Ok, NOW I see...you were just trying to steer me to this new "blog" section that I'd never gone into before. Thank you!

xo
Sarahs mom, Kristen

Donor family
Florida, near Pensacola.
Janet
Member
Username: Jan

Post Number: 528
Registered: 05-2003
Posted on Wednesday, August 19, 2009 - 01:01 pm:   Edit Post Delete Post Print Post

Kristen, Welcome to the blogs, I hope you enjoy them...
Hugs, Janet
Mom to Joe, who was an organ donor
6-1-80 / 8-21-94
kidneys, heart, and liver, plus lungs for research
www.joesmemorybears.com Cuddly bears made from your loved ones clothing
http://www.childreninheaven.netfirms.com/joekeller.htm Joe Story

Dover, Pennsylvania
South Central PA
Happy2Bhere
Member
Username: Happy2bhere

Post Number: 2844
Registered: 02-2008
Posted on Monday, August 24, 2009 - 09:22 pm:   Edit Post Delete Post Print Post

Another wonderful heart pal of mine. John Fisher does some great Donor Awareness Activities in the UK and competes all over the Globe in Major Running Events.


John even took the time to mail some organ donation shoe laces to me several years ago.

John even has his own UK website titled "Transplants and Beyond" http://www.heart-transplant.co.uk/

Ol' Bob
Texas Bob
http://www.cafepress.com/Happy2Bhere_2
Heart Transplant
performed Jan 28th 1991
http://www.heartandcoeur.com/story/bob_story.php
Happy2Bhere
Member
Username: Happy2bhere

Post Number: 2872
Registered: 02-2008
Posted on Friday, August 28, 2009 - 01:30 pm:   Edit Post Delete Post Print Post

When I first became acquainted with many of my organ transplant pals worldwide several years ago, I personally sketched some country scenes with a mailbox in a milk can, added each one of their names on the mailboxes and forwarded each sketch to my pals VIA email. The one in this attachment, I sent to Christian Daumal of Paris France.
image/bmp
Christian Daumal1.bmp (343.8 k)


I think I even sent one to our Risa of Transplantbuddies site. My heart pal Andrew Wilson even increased the size of his mailbox sketch, framed it and placed it beside his computer there in Newton-le-Willows England.

My transplantbuddies are very special to me.

Ol' Bob
Texas Bob
http://www.cafepress.com/Happy2Bhere_2
Heart Transplant
performed Jan 28th 1991
http://www.heartandcoeur.com/story/bob_story.php
Janet
Member
Username: Jan

Post Number: 562
Registered: 05-2003
Posted on Monday, August 31, 2009 - 11:38 pm:   Edit Post Delete Post Print Post

Bob, you are a man of so many talents....that is so cool....You should visit with us in PA some time....my son would love to meet you....the one that is the Tattoo Artist....he could use some help at times....
Hugs, Janet
Mom to Joe, who was an organ donor
6-1-80 / 8-21-94
kidneys, heart, and liver, plus lungs for research
www.joesmemorybears.com Cuddly bears made from your loved ones clothing
http://www.childreninheaven.netfirms.com/joekeller.htm Joe Story

Dover, Pennsylvania
South Central PA
Happy2Bhere
Member
Username: Happy2bhere

Post Number: 2897
Registered: 02-2008
Posted on Tuesday, September 01, 2009 - 10:17 am:   Edit Post Delete Post Print Post

Ten months after my dear friend Andrew Wilson passed away in London at Harefield Hospital in 2005, his parents Bryan and Sue sent this admission ticket to me.....
...even though it was impossible for me to attend, me living in Texas and the concert being in England. I had mentioned earlier in my Blog, Andrew was the very first "Domino Heart Transplant" recipient in the world. http://www.transplantsunited.com/

It has now been over 4yrs since my heart pal Andrew passed away but I still stay in close contact with his dear parents VIA email and phone calls. We sometimes share gift parcels through the Postal Service. Andrew's Mum & Dad toured America several years ago as seen in this pic at Grand Canyon.....

Regretfully,I was not able to travel west to meet them in person at that time but one day in the future I hope to meet these fine folks. They are very special to me.

"True friends leave footprints on your heart".

Ol' Bob
Texas Bob
http://www.cafepress.com/Happy2Bhere_2
Heart Transplant
performed Jan 28th 1991
http://www.heartandcoeur.com/story/bob_story.php
Happy2Bhere
Forum Leader
Username: Happy2bhere

Post Number: 2934
Registered: 02-2008
Posted on Thursday, September 10, 2009 - 11:59 am:   Edit Post Delete Post Print Post

I rec'd a wonderful surprise phone call from California this morning Sept 10th from a Mother of not one but two daughters with heart transplants. http://2hearts.org.uk/children/sisters.htm Susan Freisen and I have been corresponding for over 5yrs VIA email and phone calls. Susan was concerned about my well being since my bout with the "Grim Reaper" back in Feb there at the St Lukes Hospital here in Houston. We engaged in a long fruitful conversation about her daughters Shivan & Lindsea and their life today. All is well with these 2 young ladies.

Posted below you will see Susan and her family.(taken several years ago).

This phone call from Susan truly touched my heart.

"True friends leave footprints on your heart".

Ol' Bob
Texas Bob
http://www.cafepress.com/Happy2Bhere_2
Heart Transplant
performed Jan 28th 1991
http://www.heartandcoeur.com/story/bob_story.php
Happy2Bhere
Forum Leader
Username: Happy2bhere

Post Number: 2968
Registered: 02-2008
Posted on Saturday, September 19, 2009 - 11:27 am:   Edit Post Delete Post Print Post

Whilst I was sitting out on my front porch deck this morning, on this cool brisk morning, having a cup of delicious coffee, I was remembering back on a amazing chapter in my life. Almost 4yrs ago, I was down at the Magnolia Diner with my wife Darlene and other friends, discussing my heart transplant during our ongoing conversation. Suddenly, a lovely woman sitting with her husband at a table near ours, spoke up and inquired "Sir, did I hear correctly? Did you say that you are a heart transplant recipient?" I replied "Yes, I rec'd my transplant back in 1991". She then invited me to sit at their table and began to break down in tears, explaining to me, her 34yr old son Kenny had recently been placed on the waiting list for a badly needed heart transplant.

Over the next several months, I became acquainted with Kenny and his family, offering my personal/spiritual support to the best of my ability. Kenny eventually rec'd his very important phone call, to come on down to St Lukes Hospital for his "Gift of Life" heart transplant. I drove to the hospital that night to be present with Kenny's family during this very traumatic time. All went very well for this very lucky young man.

Kenny very recently celebrated his 3rd year post transplant and is doing just great, as per his Mom Sandy per our phone call just this moment whilst I sit here having my coffee.

Photos speak louder than words......

Kenny
Kenny & wife Jennifer
Going home
Kenny and 3 sons
Celebration dinner
Very happy Mom

Kenny's Mom Sandy celebrated her beloved son's heart transplant by changing her hair color to blue to match her organ donation tee-shirt.

These folks are very special to me.

"God moves in very mysterious ways".

Ol' Bob
Texas Bob
http://www.cafepress.com/Happy2Bhere_2
Heart Transplant
performed Jan 28th 1991
http://www.heartandcoeur.com/story/bob_story.php
Hostess Rise'
Forum Leader
Username: Risa

Post Number: 10366
Registered: 05-2003
Posted on Sunday, September 20, 2009 - 12:39 pm:   Edit Post Delete Post Print Post

What an amazing Story! You definitely have Wings! You were in the right place at the right time and did your thing. I have only one question-

Did you tell them about your favorite corner online?
Contact transplantbuddies@gmail.com

Cystic Fibrosis- dx at 2 years old
2nd double lung tx-05 JMH

Happy2Bhere
Forum Leader
Username: Happy2bhere

Post Number: 2972
Registered: 02-2008
Posted on Sunday, September 20, 2009 - 12:59 pm:   Edit Post Delete Post Print Post

Yes, I'm always telling folks about the Transplantbuddies website and this is truly my favorite corner online. I have never known of a Forum with more loving members than this one. I love 'em all.

Ol' Bob
Texas Bob
http://www.cafepress.com/Happy2Bhere_2
Heart Transplant
performed Jan 28th 1991
http://www.heartandcoeur.com/story/bob_story.php
Happy2Bhere
Forum Leader
Username: Happy2bhere

Post Number: 2998
Registered: 02-2008
Posted on Wednesday, September 23, 2009 - 03:38 pm:   Edit Post Delete Post Print Post

I'm sure that you'all will love this story about my lit'l pal Gavin Morgan. He rec'd his heart transplant when he was just a wee baby at Texas Children's Hospital in Houston Texas on February 6th 2006. I discovered his heart story on the Internet and shortly after, became acquainted with his family. They live west of Houston. Post transplant
Mommy and Gavin
Mommy and Gavin again
Gavin enjoying Bluebonnets
Gavin, Mommy and sister Lauren
Wow!! Mom and Dad decided to join the pic.
Tree Planting Ceremony with Ol' Bob
"Yummy" Candy Apple
Dad with new lit'l sister
Mommy with her clan
Visit to Texas Children's Hospital
Most recent photo of this beautiful family.


I am so thrilled that this family came into my life. It truly warms my heart to see that huge smile on lit'l Gavin's face. He has now taken up the sport of Bowling as per news from his Mom Heather and has learned to love the sport dearly.

Ol' Bob
Texas Bob
http://www.cafepress.com/Happy2Bhere_2
Heart Transplant
performed Jan 28th 1991
http://www.heartandcoeur.com/story/bob_story.php
Happy2Bhere
Forum Leader
Username: Happy2bhere

Post Number: 2999
Registered: 02-2008
Posted on Wednesday, September 23, 2009 - 07:28 pm:   Edit Post Delete Post Print Post

NOTE:
The first pic above shoud have been PRE-transplant. Lit'l Gavin was on a Ventilator awaiting his heart transplant.

Ol' Bob
Texas Bob
http://www.cafepress.com/Happy2Bhere_2
Heart Transplant
performed Jan 28th 1991
http://www.heartandcoeur.com/story/bob_story.php
Lizzies Mom
Member
Username: Lizzies_mom

Post Number: 16
Registered: 04-2008
Posted on Saturday, September 26, 2009 - 03:44 pm:   Edit Post Delete Post Print Post

Kristen, these blogs are wonderful for support and you will find that 'Bob' is about the most well connected person in the transplant circles, he has been there for me and my girls for some time now... Thanks Bob !!!
Gerri
Happy2Bhere
Forum Leader
Username: Happy2bhere

Post Number: 3020
Registered: 02-2008
Posted on Saturday, September 26, 2009 - 04:16 pm:   Edit Post Delete Post Print Post

Thank you very much Gerri. You are all very special to me.

Ol' Bob
Texas Bob
http://www.cafepress.com/Happy2Bhere_2
Heart Transplant
performed Jan 28th 1991
http://www.heartandcoeur.com/story/bob_story.php
Hostess Rise'
Forum Leader
Username: Risa

Post Number: 10432
Registered: 05-2003
Posted on Saturday, September 26, 2009 - 04:18 pm:   Edit Post Delete Post Print Post

Beautiful Blog of your heart transplant pals. a gift from Bob's heart :-)
Contact transplantbuddies@gmail.com

Cystic Fibrosis- dx at 2 years old
2nd double lung tx-05 JMH

Happy2Bhere
Forum Leader
Username: Happy2bhere

Post Number: 3025
Registered: 02-2008
Posted on Sunday, September 27, 2009 - 11:47 am:   Edit Post Delete Post Print Post

I'm almost sure that you will enjoy this story about my own sketch being sent to England VIA email to my dear heart pal Andrew Wilson's parents(mentioned above in this thread). Original sketch

After Andrew's parents Bryan and Sue rec'd this sketch, this increased the size, copied it and placed it in a frame in Andrew's bedroom amongst his various photos.You can even see the lit'l Texas boot that we had sent to them earlier.

This truly amazes me, to sketch a pic here in Texas and in a matter of a very short time, it is framed and sitting on a mantle in Newton-le-Willows England.

"True friends leave footprints on your heart".

Ol' Bob
Texas Bob
http://www.cafepress.com/Happy2Bhere_2
Heart Transplant
performed Jan 28th 1991
http://www.heartandcoeur.com/story/bob_story.php
Karen Vernon
Member
Username: Kavernon

Post Number: 2
Registered: 02-2009
Posted on Wednesday, October 07, 2009 - 04:56 pm:   Edit Post Delete Post Print Post

Okay Bob...you got me in your corner too. You old devil you. This is a great site. I enjoyed seeing the pictures of your transplant buddies. How wonderful it must make you feel to know how much of an impact you've had on these people's lives. You're the best.

Just me...One of your long time fans and friends....Karen Vernon
Otsego, MN (former resident of Houston, TX)
Happy2Bhere
Forum Leader
Username: Happy2bhere

Post Number: 3087
Registered: 02-2008
Posted on Wednesday, October 07, 2009 - 05:54 pm:   Edit Post Delete Post Print Post

OMG !! Karen, you surely surprised me with your visit to this wonderful site with all of my great transplant pals from around the world. You now can see first-hand what organ transplants are all about. Please just take the time to scroll around various threads and get acquainted with these fine folks. I love 'em all, by golly.

Karen, your longtime friendship with me is very, very special, lit'l lady. I think our close friendship goes back more than 30yrs. Right?

I will surely be thinking about you during those cold hard winter days way up there in Minnesota this winter. <chuckle>

Love ya'

Ol' Bob
P.S. You are just full of surprises !!
Texas Bob
http://www.cafepress.com/Happy2Bhere_2
Heart Transplant
performed Jan 28th 1991
http://www.heartandcoeur.com/story/bob_story.php
Happy2Bhere
Forum Leader
Username: Happy2bhere

Post Number: 3090
Registered: 02-2008
Posted on Thursday, October 08, 2009 - 10:20 am:   Edit Post Delete Post Print Post

Even though some of you might find these photos quite graphic, I am still astonished that I can sit here reading personal emails today from 2 of my heart pals, Meagan of Canada and Micky of Engand and at the same time, be looking down into their chest cavities with another human being holding Meagan and Micky's hearts in their hands. Absolutely incredible!!
Meagan's heart
Meagan

Micky
Micky's heart

This to me, is truly fascinating.

Miracles never cease

Ol' Bob

P.S. I have permission from both recipients to post these amazing photos.
Texas Bob
http://www.cafepress.com/Happy2Bhere_2
Heart Transplant
performed Jan 28th 1991
http://www.heartandcoeur.com/story/bob_story.php
Meagan
Member
Username: Newheart14

Post Number: 290
Registered: 01-2009
Posted on Thursday, October 08, 2009 - 10:36 am:   Edit Post Delete Post Print Post

Bob,

The second pic is of the surgeons hands in my abdomen when they were putting in the liver. Wonder what that one guy was groping around in there for. His hand looks to be all the way to my back. :-)

You should post the clip of my old heart taking its last beat in my surgeon's hands. If anybody vomits then it will be your fault ... haha.
First Combined Heart-Liver Transplant
Performed at Toronto General Hospital, Toronto, Canada
Valentine&#39;s Day, 2008

http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1149907559&amp;ref=name

http://www.tgwhf.ca/sites/testyourlimits/
Happy2Bhere
Forum Leader
Username: Happy2bhere

Post Number: 3091
Registered: 02-2008
Posted on Thursday, October 08, 2009 - 10:44 am:   Edit Post Delete Post Print Post

"If anybody vomits then it will be your fault ... haha."

I will take a pass on that Meagan. Don't want anyone to blame me for their vomitting, by golly. <chuckle>

I am just so very happy that you survived this heart/liver transplant, otherwise I would not have known you, lit'l lady. God Bless

I wish that our pal Micky B could join in on this conversation but he's probably too busy on that steel guitar of his, playing that beautiful music.

Ol' Bob
Texas Bob
http://www.cafepress.com/Happy2Bhere_2
Heart Transplant
performed Jan 28th 1991
http://www.heartandcoeur.com/story/bob_story.php
Happy2Bhere
Forum Leader
Username: Happy2bhere

Post Number: 3110
Registered: 02-2008
Posted on Monday, October 12, 2009 - 05:08 am:   Edit Post Delete Post Print Post

I had the honor of personally meeting a young lady in Franklin Kentucky face-to-face while I was driving to the 2006 Transplant Games in Louisville back in June of 2006. Leslie Keown was a lovely 18yr old young lady when I met she and her parents at a Mexican Restaurant there in Franklin. What was so unique about this visit was knowing Leslie had rec'd her heart transplant at the very tender age of 9 days old. Several pics attached of that meeting and these are the links to info about my new found transplant pal Leslie.

http://www.wbko.com/news/headlines/50588882.html

http://www.franklinfavorite.com/articles/stories/public/200505/26/gradkeown5265.html

She very recently graduated college. We still stay in contact by phone from time to time. As I have mentioned several times in the past, my transplant buddies are very special to me.


I became acquiainted with Leslie and her family with the very kind assistance of a Kentucky newspaper reporter.

Ol' Bob
Texas Bob
http://www.cafepress.com/Happy2Bhere_2
Heart Transplant
performed Jan 28th 1991
http://www.heartandcoeur.com/story/bob_story.php
Happy2Bhere
Forum Leader
Username: Happy2bhere

Post Number: 3127
Registered: 02-2008
Posted on Thursday, October 15, 2009 - 11:15 am:   Edit Post Delete Post Print Post

I have seen some beautiful pics of Canadian scenery on various threads, so I decided to post this pic of some very cute Canadian kittens with their new master Joyce who is also my Canadian Cyber pal.

Meagen, this is your new Canadian pen pal. OK?

Ol' Bob
Texas Bob
http://www.cafepress.com/Happy2Bhere_2
Heart Transplant
performed Jan 28th 1991
http://www.heartandcoeur.com/story/bob_story.php
Meagan
Member
Username: Newheart14

Post Number: 316
Registered: 01-2009
Posted on Saturday, October 17, 2009 - 10:11 am:   Edit Post Delete Post Print Post

Thanks for hooking us Bob. She lives in Toronto where I had my transplant.
First Combined Heart-Liver Transplant
Performed at Toronto General Hospital, Toronto, Canada
Valentine&#39;s Day, 2008

http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1149907559&amp;ref=name

http://www.tgwhf.ca/sites/testyourlimits/
Happy2Bhere
Forum Leader
Username: Happy2bhere

Post Number: 3136
Registered: 02-2008
Posted on Saturday, October 17, 2009 - 01:27 pm:   Edit Post Delete Post Print Post

Meagan, I have grown very fond of both of you lit'l Canadian ladies. You both compose some very interesting emails. I certainly love news and pics of your beautiful Canada.

Ol' Bob
Texas Bob
http://www.cafepress.com/Happy2Bhere_2
Heart Transplant
performed Jan 28th 1991
http://www.heartandcoeur.com/story/bob_story.php
Happy2Bhere
Forum Leader
Username: Happy2bhere

Post Number: 3138
Registered: 02-2008
Posted on Saturday, October 17, 2009 - 09:21 pm:   Edit Post Delete Post Print Post

Sharing email:

I rec'd that DVD from Micky B this afternoon about that BBC Documentary about his heart transplant and one of the most famous heart surgeons in the world Prof Sir Magdi Yacoub. (Very graphic) but great to watch. Here's my reply back to him:

Oh my God !!

Micky, the audio/video that you sent to me, is truly the most wonderful video that I have ever watched. Thank you so very much for forwarding this wonderful gift to me, mate. I actually feel much closer to you after watching this. I thank God for placing you in my life.

You had mentioned to me earlier about your loss of your voice shortly after your transplant. During this segment of the video, yours and Julie's testimony about donated organs was very heartwarming and very true.

We loved your song "Achey Breaky Heart" at the end of video, by golly. I rec'd this video in the mail Saturday evening and could hardly wait to place it in my DVD player.

I don't intend to sound too mushy but I truly love you as if you were my own dear brother. Please NEVER loose contact with me. OK? With your Blessing, we plan to share this audio/video with many, many friends including Gene & Kathy.

Darlene says that she also loves you, mate.

Your ol' Texas pal,
Bobby Lloyd



Ol' Bob
Texas Bob
http://www.cafepress.com/Happy2Bhere_2
Heart Transplant
performed Jan 28th 1991
http://www.heartandcoeur.com/story/bob_story.php
Happy2Bhere
Forum Leader
Username: Happy2bhere

Post Number: 3143
Registered: 02-2008
Posted on Sunday, October 18, 2009 - 06:58 pm:   Edit Post Delete Post Print Post

Many of my transplantbuddies on this site have commented on my many organ transplant friends around the world. My heart pal Micky(in above post), forwarded a message to me today and informed me that he had just completed a gig with band members in the County of Kent there in UK. See poster below......
Micky cannot be seen in this pic. He was sitting with his steel guitar at the right side of the photo beside the Conga Drums on the extreme right.

Micky can be seen in the pic below, jamming with some other musicians recently.

This wonderful fellow is very special to me. Please keep in mind, Micky has had 3 separate heart surgeries including a complete heart transplant plus having a brain tumor removed in the past.

This guy is certainly like that bunny that just keeps on goin' and goin' and goin' !!!

Ol' Bob
Texas Bob
http://www.cafepress.com/Happy2Bhere_2
Heart Transplant
performed Jan 28th 1991
http://www.heartandcoeur.com/story/bob_story.php
Meagan
Member
Username: Newheart14

Post Number: 331
Registered: 01-2009
Posted on Monday, October 19, 2009 - 01:52 pm:   Edit Post Delete Post Print Post

Bob,

You are a wonderful friend to Micky and all of your organ transplant friends worldwide.
First Combined Heart-Liver Transplant
Performed at Toronto General Hospital, Toronto, Canada
Valentine&#39;s Day, 2008

http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1149907559&amp;ref=name

http://www.tgwhf.ca/sites/testyourlimits/
Happy2Bhere
Forum Leader
Username: Happy2bhere

Post Number: 3155
Registered: 02-2008
Posted on Wednesday, October 21, 2009 - 03:00 pm:   Edit Post Delete Post Print Post

Very ironic event:

I just this moment had a amazing happening. I very seldom contact my friend Doris Skinner but by pure accident, I decided to inquire about her transplant anniversary date just a few hours ago. I rec'd this reply back from her just this moment:

Hi Bob,

Actually today is my 25th transplant anniversary and we just celebrated
here at work! I wish you and all the great other transplants I've known
could be here to help celebrate with me! I am many times blessed!

Her heart story is at the very top of this thread. She lives in Ohio.

Ol' Bob
Texas Bob
http://www.cafepress.com/Happy2Bhere_2
Heart Transplant
performed Jan 28th 1991
http://www.heartandcoeur.com/story/bob_story.php
Karen R.
Forum Leader
Username: Relivkaren

Post Number: 3680
Registered: 07-2007
Posted on Wednesday, October 21, 2009 - 08:27 pm:   Edit Post Delete Post Print Post

Bob:

How cool!!! Doris sounds like a very sweet and thankful person. I love how she has counted the days since her heart transplant and considers each day an opportunity. She has the best outlook on life. I am sure that's why her heart just keeps on beating. I bet she looks lovely with wrinkles and hot flashes!! LOL!! Great story!!

God Bless!
Karen
Dx: BOOP - May 2006. Rediagnosed with Bronchiolitis Obliterans Nov. 2006
Listed Feb 2008 - Waiting on double lung transplant at Cleveland Clinic

Ohio, USA

Be kinder than necessary because everyone you meet is fighting some kind of battle.
Happy2Bhere
Forum Leader
Username: Happy2bhere

Post Number: 3160
Registered: 02-2008
Posted on Thursday, October 22, 2009 - 09:59 am:   Edit Post Delete Post Print Post

Karen, I just this moment placed a phone call to Ohio to Doris and congratulated her on her 25th anniversary. She was quite surprised as this was the very first time we had spoken on the phone.

Karen, since Doris lives there in Ohio, I had mentioned to her about your recent close call for your lung transplant. She asked about you today. I even sent a pic of you to her that I had snagged off the 'Net. Hope you don't mind, lit'l lady.

Ol' Bob
Texas Bob
http://www.cafepress.com/Happy2Bhere_2
Heart Transplant
performed Jan 28th 1991
http://www.heartandcoeur.com/story/bob_story.php
Happy2Bhere
Forum Leader
Username: Happy2bhere

Post Number: 3176
Registered: 02-2008
Posted on Monday, October 26, 2009 - 12:40 pm:   Edit Post Delete Post Print Post

My lit'l heart transplant pal Gavin has come a long way since his transplant at the tender age of 3 months old.....

His Mommy Heather forwarded these pics to me yesterday.



Lit'l Gavin can be seen with his 2 sisters here. Heather titled the pics: "Dancing With The Stars"

Ol' Bob
Texas Bob
http://www.cafepress.com/Happy2Bhere_2
Heart Transplant
performed Jan 28th 1991
http://www.heartandcoeur.com/story/bob_story.php
Meagan
Member
Username: Newheart14

Post Number: 357
Registered: 01-2009
Posted on Monday, October 26, 2009 - 12:57 pm:   Edit Post Delete Post Print Post

I love it Bob! Dancing With The Stars - my favourite show! Gavin is looking so well - bless him. They are all so cute.
First Combined Heart-Liver Transplant
Performed at Toronto General Hospital, Toronto, Canada
Valentine&#39;s Day, 2008

http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1149907559&amp;ref=name

http://www.tgwhf.ca/sites/testyourlimits/
Karen R.
Forum Leader
Username: Relivkaren

Post Number: 3707
Registered: 07-2007
Posted on Monday, October 26, 2009 - 04:40 pm:   Edit Post Delete Post Print Post

Bob:

Great pictures! It is so great to see Gavin enjoying life with his sisters.

God Bless!
Karen
Dx: BOOP - May 2006. Rediagnosed with Bronchiolitis Obliterans Nov. 2006
Listed Feb 2008 - Waiting on double lung transplant at Cleveland Clinic

Ohio, USA

Be kinder than necessary because everyone you meet is fighting some kind of battle.
Happy2Bhere
Forum Leader
Username: Happy2bhere

Post Number: 3181
Registered: 02-2008
Posted on Tuesday, October 27, 2009 - 01:29 pm:   Edit Post Delete Post Print Post

My British heart pal in mentioned further up in this thread.

This may surprise you but our British pal Micky Byrne was once a movie actor. You can see him in this You-Tube clip with "Mr Bean"Rowan Atkinson. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eJpEDG3JCrs&NR=1 Micky was the first robber to have his masked pulled off by Rowan Atkinson.


Ol' Bob
Texas Bob
http://www.cafepress.com/Happy2Bhere_2
Heart Transplant
performed Jan 28th 1991
http://www.heartandcoeur.com/story/bob_story.php
Hostess Rise'
Forum Leader
Username: Risa

Post Number: 10844
Registered: 05-2003
Posted on Tuesday, October 27, 2009 - 02:09 pm:   Edit Post Delete Post Print Post

What a beautiful thread blog BOB!

love the little kiddies outfits! Little Gavin with his Sisters, Priceless!
Transplant Buddies flyer -share with friends and your transplant center by printing our flyer.
http://www.transplantbuddies.org/images/TxBuddies_poster.pdf

FaceBook http://facebook.com/transplant.buddies
Cystic Fibrosis- dx at 2 years old
2nd double lung tx-05 JMH

Contact me TxbuddiesEmail@gmail.com
Happy2Bhere
Forum Leader
Username: Happy2bhere

Post Number: 3240
Registered: 02-2008
Posted on Tuesday, November 10, 2009 - 10:43 pm:   Edit Post Delete Post Print Post

I'm just a few months behind this gentleman with my own heart transplant.

http://www.thisisleicestershire.co.uk/news/Leicestershire-heart-transplant-survi vor-reaches-milestone-7-000-days/article-1492031-detail/article.html
"In August 1990 he was told he had less than a month to live, then the call came to say a donor had been found." May he live for many more years....

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

.....now back to Ol' Bob....


I rec'd a phone call this afternoon from my heart pal Mark Pickel of Tennessee. Dr "Bud" Frazier of Houston Texas also performed his heart transplant 5 months after mine in 1991. Mark is now a High School Principal there in Tenn. He also works part-time at a funeral home. This is quite ironic, a heart recip' working at a funeral home.

I was present at St Lukes Hospital on the night of his transplant, sat with his Mom all night long in the OR Waiting room, just to keep her company.

Ol' Bob
Texas Bob
http://www.cafepress.com/Happy2Bhere_2
Heart Transplant
performed Jan 28th 1991
http://www.heartandcoeur.com/story/bob_story.php
Happy2Bhere
Forum Leader
Username: Happy2bhere

Post Number: 3386
Registered: 02-2008
Posted on Tuesday, December 22, 2009 - 03:27 pm:   Edit Post Delete Post Print Post

Even though this may be improper, I want to share this with all............

I was going back thru my old email files and discovered this email below from the(former) world's longest living heart transplant recipient Tony Huesman. The date of this email was Oct 2008. Tony passed away Aug 2009, after surviving 31 years post heart transplant. He died of complications from cancer, said his wife, Carol Huesman. He was 51. "His heart held up to the end," she said. Prior to his death, we shared several emails and phone calls. He even sent some of his "Children's Heart Books" to me, which he composed himself. See attached pic...

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

bob, weather is starting to change here too. mid 60's during the day but getting down to low 40's at night. had to turn on the heat the other night. my wife is turning 50 this sunday so lots of fun stuff planned. i'm a bengals fan so i'm suffering with their 0-7 start.... at least ohio state is doing ok. healthwise i'm doing ok.. ... lot's of aches and pains in my legs but i think i'm just getting old..... hope all is well with you and yours..... best always, tony




Ol' Bob
Texas Bob
http://www.cafepress.com/Happy2Bhere_2
Heart Transplant
performed Jan 28th 1991
http://www.heartandcoeur.com/story/bob_story.php
Happy2Bhere
Forum Leader
Username: Happy2bhere

Post Number: 3391
Registered: 02-2008
Posted on Saturday, December 26, 2009 - 04:37 pm:   Edit Post Delete Post Print Post

Another very cute pic of my lit'l heart pal Gavin and his 2 sisters, visiting with Santa.

Gavin rec'd his heart transplant when he was just a wee baby several years ago.

Ol' Bob
Texas Bob
http://www.cafepress.com/Happy2Bhere_2
Heart Transplant
performed Jan 28th 1991
http://www.heartandcoeur.com/story/bob_story.php
Happy2Bhere
Forum Leader
Username: Happy2bhere

Post Number: 3454
Registered: 02-2008
Posted on Tuesday, March 16, 2010 - 07:22 pm:   Edit Post Delete Post Print Post

My heart transplant pal Micky Byrne of England can be seen onstage playing his steel guitar in this YouTube video.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vsPMowXX43M

My pal Micky can be seen further up on this thread. He very recently celebrated his 11th year post heart transplant.

Ol' Bob
Texas Bob
http://www.cafepress.com/Happy2Bhere_2
Heart Transplant
performed Jan 28th 1991
http://www.heartandcoeur.com/story/bob_story.php
Happy2Bhere
Forum Leader
Username: Happy2bhere

Post Number: 3461
Registered: 02-2008
Posted on Sunday, March 21, 2010 - 03:37 pm:   Edit Post Delete Post Print Post



The Above sketched penned By fellow transplant buddy Bob Pitcock, Texas U.S.A.(Thanks Bob.)

This can be seen on my British pal Andrew Wilson's website: http://www.transplantsunited.com/

Andrew passed away in London July 7th 2005 at Harefield Hospital after surviving over 17yrs with a "Domino Heart Transplant". He was the very 1st in the world to receive this type heart transplant.

I loved him like a brother and still dearly miss him.

Ol' Bob
Texas Bob
http://www.cafepress.com/Happy2Bhere_2
Heart Transplant
performed Jan 28th 1991
http://www.heartandcoeur.com/story/bob_story.php
Happy2Bhere
Forum Leader
Username: Happy2bhere

Post Number: 3485
Registered: 02-2008
Posted on Monday, April 05, 2010 - 06:26 pm:   Edit Post Delete Post Print Post

I rec'd a wonderful surprise today. I rec'd a phone call from my young heart transplant pal Alex Wood and his Granny Margot in Florida. http://www.alexzanderwood.com/ You may remember, I first met Alex and his family with the assistance of a newspaper reporter there in Florida over over 3yrs ago, after reading his heart story online.

Granny Margot kept me posted all through Alex's heart transplant journey including the time he was hooked up to the Berlin Heart Pump prior to his transplant 3yrs ago at Shands Hospital.

Ol' Bob
Texas Bob
http://www.cafepress.com/Happy2Bhere_2
Heart Transplant
performed Jan 28th 1991
http://www.heartandcoeur.com/story/bob_story.php
Happy2Bhere
Forum Leader
Username: Happy2bhere

Post Number: 3486
Registered: 02-2008
Posted on Monday, April 05, 2010 - 07:01 pm:   Edit Post Delete Post Print Post

Various pics of young Alex forwarded to me by his Granny Margo the past few years.








Most recent pic below of young Alex. Lookin' good !! 3 years post transplant.


Ol' Bob
Texas Bob
http://www.cafepress.com/Happy2Bhere_2
Heart Transplant
performed Jan 28th 1991
http://www.heartandcoeur.com/story/bob_story.php
Karen R.
Forum Leader
Username: Relivkaren

Post Number: 4295
Registered: 07-2007
Posted on Monday, April 05, 2010 - 10:00 pm:   Edit Post Delete Post Print Post

Bob:

Wow! Alex looks great! Thanks for the follow up. It is so amazing to see how transplant totally transforms lives!

God Bless!
Karen
Dx: BOOP - May 2006. Rediagnosed with Bronchiolitis Obliterans Nov. 2006
Double lung transplant on Dec. 1st, 2009
Cleveland Clinic

Ohio, USA

Be kinder than necessary because everyone you meet is fighting some kind of battle.
Happy2Bhere
Forum Leader
Username: Happy2bhere

Post Number: 3493
Registered: 02-2008
Posted on Saturday, April 10, 2010 - 10:20 am:   Edit Post Delete Post Print Post

This is lit'l Kayla's very amazing story about her heart transplant journey. First of all, here's 2 pics of her, first one with her Granny Sherrie and the other taken very recently.


Even though Kayla survived a "Domino Heart Transplant" Feb 2006 http://abcnews.go.com/Health/story?id=1569963 , young Jason Wolfe, Kayla's heart donor, passed away several months later, due to complications with his newly transplanted lungs. This was truly very sad news. This probably sounds very strange to hear of lit'l Kayla's heart donor passing away but you need to read about "Domino Heart Transplants" to fully understand this. OK?

Ol' Bob
Texas Bob
http://www.cafepress.com/Happy2Bhere_2
Heart Transplant
performed Jan 28th 1991
http://www.heartandcoeur.com/story/bob_story.php
Happy2Bhere
Forum Leader
Username: Happy2bhere

Post Number: 3544
Registered: 02-2008
Posted on Thursday, May 20, 2010 - 09:45 pm:   Edit Post Delete Post Print Post

I spoke on the phone with a heart pal several days ago in El Paso Texas, Eddie Knipp. Not only has he rec'd 2 separate heart transplants since 1987, he very recently rec'd heart surgery on his transplanted heart. He is 65yrs old. http://www.texasheart.org/AboutUs/News/knipp_transplant25.cfm

Ol' Bob
Texas Bob
http://www.cafepress.com/Happy2Bhere_2
Heart Transplant
performed Jan 28th 1991
http://www.heartandcoeur.com/story/bob_story.php
Happy2Bhere
Forum Leader
Username: Happy2bhere

Post Number: 3576
Registered: 02-2008
Posted on Saturday, June 26, 2010 - 01:56 pm:   Edit Post Delete Post Print Post

I want to introduce to you, my very dear transplant friend Gaea Shaw of Colorado_ In 1997 she received the greatest gift of all, a vibrant new heart and abundant life force. Nine months after her successful heart transplant, she competed at the U.S. Transplant Games and won the first three medals of her life - two gold and one silver. She went on to win a dozen gold, one bronze, and seven silver medals in four U.S. and three World Transplant Games. http://www.gaeashaw.com/


Gaea is also the author of a wonderful book "Dying To Live" http://www.amazon.com/Dying-Live-Heart-Transplant-Abundant/dp/0974959758

Ol' Bob
Texas Bob
http://www.cafepress.com/Happy2Bhere_2
Heart Transplant
performed Jan 28th 1991
http://www.heartandcoeur.com/story/bob_story.php
Hostess Rise'
Board Administrator
Username: Rise

Post Number: 13489
Registered: 05-2003
Posted on Saturday, June 26, 2010 - 03:49 pm:   Edit Post Delete Post Print Post

Hi Bob

I remember this lady when I first created buddies. Glad to hear she is doing well.
Cystic Fibrosis- dx at 2yrs. -2nd double lung tx-05 JMH

Sharing Knowledge is an Invaluable Experience

Transplant Friends.com

Questions- Contactl Hostess Rise'
Happy2Bhere
Forum Leader
Username: Happy2bhere

Post Number: 3577
Registered: 02-2008
Posted on Saturday, June 26, 2010 - 04:43 pm:   Edit Post Delete Post Print Post

Risa, Gaea even has your transplantbuddies.org website posted on her website.

I first met her on the 'Net almost 6yrs ago and we have corresponded VIA email from time to time ever since.

Wonderful lady

Ol' Bob
Texas Bob
http://www.cafepress.com/Happy2Bhere_2
Heart Transplant
performed Jan 28th 1991
http://www.heartandcoeur.com/story/bob_story.php
gaea
Member
Username: Gaeashaw

Post Number: 2
Registered: 02-2009
Posted on Saturday, June 26, 2010 - 05:38 pm:   Edit Post Delete Post Print Post

Hi Bob,
Thanks for the post about me and my magnificent journey! I turn 70 next week, and there's only one reason I'm reaching this ripe old age, and you know what that is! What a blessing, every day and in every way. Thank you Christopher, my heart donor. You made all this possible. I know you are in heaven looking down on me all the time. I feel you.
Love, peace, blessings,
Gaea
Gaea Shaw
Hostess Rise'
Board Administrator
Username: Rise

Post Number: 13491
Registered: 05-2003
Posted on Saturday, June 26, 2010 - 05:44 pm:   Edit Post Delete Post Print Post

Welcome Gaea to TransplantBuddies:-)

Great to have you aboard. Thank you Bob for bringing in so many of your heart pals.
Cystic Fibrosis- dx at 2yrs. -2nd double lung tx-05 JMH

Sharing Knowledge is an Invaluable Experience

Transplant Friends.com

Questions- Contactl Hostess Rise'
Billy
Member
Username: Billybob

Post Number: 8
Registered: 04-2010
Posted on Saturday, June 26, 2010 - 06:09 pm:   Edit Post Delete Post Print Post

Has anyone fiqured out how to beat weight gain while on long term high dose predisone? Also: I will be 100% disabled for two years in February 2011. Will the government's insurance plans pay for my lung transplant? My currernt insurance has a 20% copay which I cannot afford. Thank you, Billy

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