We looked like a parade of cast off medical hardware. This is the way it worked. Emily used a rolling walker, elbows at 90 degrees resting on pads. Just needs a rocket and she is in a Bond movie. Hanging off of the walker are four plastic 'boxes", hooked to 1/2" tubes that go into her chest cavity and drain off any blood or of liquid from the pleural spaces. Chest tubes. These are powered by two portable pumps (shoe box size) . Then there was the ever present IV pole with several pumps and bags. Yikes...lots of stuff. Emily was masked up as she will be whenever she leaves the room. You could see the smile in her eyes. She is now back in her room waiting for food. More walks later ...it is quite a production and her nurse Krista is a wizard to pull it off.
I have been fortunate to have hiked in the Grand Canyon and in some of the most beautiful mountain ranges in the northwest. I have never been on a walk that was more satisfying. unlikely, or beautiful. We all loved each andd every step and breathe.
More later today, plz know that we appreciate each and every thought. we are overwhelmed by mail. Don 't stop it helps but it willbe a long reply before most replies are made.
Keith
3 Cheers for Emily!! Way to go girl! You are amazing! I am so happy for you. Never doubted for a minute you'd pull this off. Keep up the good work. Looking forward to you taking over this blog so we can get "a bird's eye view" of your experiences and progress.
ReplyDeletehugs and kisses to all,
Nita
Emily you are amazing. Thank you for letting us all follow along on your journey. Your courage add grace give me and other CFers so much hope. All the best, keep kicking butt!!
ReplyDeleteKatie McConville
Thanks for sharing that Keith! Jen and I are so happy for you Emily. Keep up the fast healing! Love, Steve and Jen Yeager (and Presley too) :)
ReplyDeleteYaaaaay Emily!! That is amazing! I can just picture you like a human honeymoon car with all these things trailing behind you, clattering and making noise.
ReplyDeleteI just spoke with Emmy P. about our trip to come up and see you... it looks like we'll be coming up on March 13th and staying for the weekend. I'm so excited!
Sad that you'll miss my gig in Eugene on the 12th, but I'm looking into streaming it live online so that you can watch from Seattle!
Love you...! Forget walking... you'll be running in no time :)
Brooke
Keith you are a wonderful writer! I feel like I was there taking those first steps with Emily. I am in awe at how well the recovery is going. Emily you are so strong and such an amazing woman to keep on trucking. I cannot wait to crack jokes at burger and brew and hear you laugh from the bottom of your new lungs!
ReplyDeleteLots of love,
Emily
Well, I suppose now that you are walking it's time to start scheming up some summer adventures. You keep breathing deep, Lady. There's some serious fun to be had, and Henry is going to be shocked when rather than throw the rose at him you jump onto the stage, dancing, and sweep him off his feet. =)
ReplyDeletelove you. can't wait to hear your laugh again.
E-beth
We are amazed at Emily's courage and Peg and Keith's stamina. Thank you so much for keeping us up to date so well. Your writing, Keith, is wonderful. It feels almost as if we are there. We talked to Grace today. She is following the blog closely and pulling hard for you, Emily. We are hoping that you will be in shape for Mac's wedding in Bellingham on August 15. It will be so good to see you. If visitor's are allowed when we are next in Seattle, we'll come bring you some Grand Canyon rocks.
ReplyDeleteLove,
Dave and Duane
Way to go Em! It's so nice to hear how you are doing - I am sending love your way!
ReplyDeleteI am checking the blog all day long, and am thinking about you!
XOXO Petie
I love the description! :) I’m in complete awe of you wonder woman. I can't describe the grin I have thinking of you walking with full breaths. It sounds like you have a good staff there. I hope they are treating you like heaven sent wild child you are, and not making you wait for things...that's no fun for anyone :) I love you. I wish I could write all the things that I’m thinking. I’m so happy for you. I will write you a real email when I get home tonight!!
ReplyDeleteWow! What a great day for you all! It must feel like an incredible burden has been lifted from all your shoulders, and hearts. I am so happy for you all.
ReplyDeleteWhy was I reminded of Keith rowing a gear boat when I read that description?
Kent
Great job Emily! Keep up the strong healing. They have no idea what box they have just opened now that you're walking... I hope Krista is in good shape!
ReplyDeleteI wanted to let you know that I applied to nursing schools this past week. I sent apps to programs in Portland, The Gorge and Southern Or. I remember talking to you about it almost a year ago... How time flies! I'm sure you'll be back at it in no time, memorizing Grey's and studying dense irregular connective tissues. You're awesome and inspiring. Hope to see you soon...
Yayayyaya! Yay Em I am so proud of you! Keep it up. xoxo Lizo
ReplyDeleteGo emily!!! You're a trooper girl with so many people here to cheer you on!
ReplyDeleteXoxo ash
WAY TO GO EMILY!!!!!!
ReplyDeleteWhat was the "hot guy" situation out in the hall?
It's wonderful to read about your amazing progress! It's hard to believe that you're up and walking laps already. By next year you'll be ready for the Eugene Marathon!!
ReplyDeleteEmily:
ReplyDeleteI do not even know you, I only know your dear old dad.... but your story has made me cry. I am in awe at your strength and courage. You sound like a truly amazing lady...even though I have not met you, I am sending all my thoughts for recovery your way. Happy breathing forever!
Sarah Aitken
Emily, you are inspiring this country, & people around the world!! I think you are going to single-handedly pull us out of this recession with your incredible courage! ...even I am getting off my butt & exercising more after reading these accounts!!
ReplyDeleteKeith & Peggy, I can't imagine the extreme hurt of watching Emily's pain, while at the same moment experience the joy of seeing her breathe again!!! Keep up this incredible effort you guys!! I think Team Monfort is unbeatable! This is a miraculous time!! ... Get some rest. Continued prayers from Florida.
Clark R.
Congrats Emily! This is very exciting. I wish you the best and hope to see you return to the PAC soon.
ReplyDeleteCarrie
What a Hike! I can't tell you how much I would have liked to be on that hike. What a joy! It couldn't happen to a more deserving family and circle of friends. Emily, you are one scientific specimen. What a young mind can do for so many. Thank you for your persistence and passion for life. You humble all of us. Keep it up girl!
ReplyDeleteThat was Mike Johnson's comment on Pam Johnson's profile...but we're together on this.
ReplyDeleteCongratulations Emily on the new lungs! Sounds like everything is going as well as could be hoped for and that you're doing great. Keep up the hard work of recovering.
ReplyDeleteIt was really great to catch up over Xmas break, and I just wanted you to know that I'm so happy for you. I'm sure you're getting good vibes and positive thoughts from all corners of the world right now, and that includes this lonely corner of Ontario.
And thank you to Emily's fam & friends for supporting her, and especially to Keith for the updates!
Cheers,
Devon Biggerstaff
Emily
ReplyDeleteThe sun is bright and warm in Eugene today, and the spring flowers that are starting to show up have been reminding me of the renewed life force that is surging for you! (or as Dylan Thomas so much better put it: "The force that through the green fuse drives the flower/Drives my green age ... The force that drives the water through the rocks/Drives my red blood.")
You have always been an amazing and determined dynamo, and it thrills me beyond words that you have a new source of oxygen to fuel your energetic being.
My love and all good wishes are with you (and Peg and Keith) as you heal through your recuperation and go from strength to strength.
Matthew P.
Go, Emily, GO !!
ReplyDeleteOur whole family is just waiting to get up to your room loaded with whipped cream pies for some serious facials!
If your nurse is as cool as your dad says she is, she should be down with that. If not, well, ... we'll help her see the light.
Keep hanging tough -- you know that you are an inspiration to a ton of folks out here....
Yay Emily! So glad you got a new pair of lungs for Valentines! You are strong. You are powerful. You are loved. Breathe strong! And bless all those who care for you during this time.
ReplyDeleteEmily, ever since we first met you about 20 years ago we knew you were one tough cookie! We are so glad to hear that the transplant went well and that you are up and walking!! We've got a whole bunch of people down here praying for you. Love, Randy, Pat and Jean
ReplyDeleteEMILY! WOW....words can't even come close to expressing the feelings...nailbiting one minute--exhilaration the next, then back to holding my breath waiting for the next blog from Keith. I am sure you can feel the collective energy that is there for you out in the universe.
ReplyDeleteThere is a love cloud floating out there above the Pacific NW--all pink and cushy and cozy for you to float on!
Love you all, thanks for keeping us in the loop! Brenda
Hello Emily! I am writing for your cousins here in Florida. For some reason Sarah and Danny are unable to post comments. They want you to know they are very relieved and happy for you. Hopefully they can get their computer bugs worked out so they can talk to you themselves!Keep up the fantastic work and thanks so much Keith for you wonderful reports.
ReplyDeletelove ya all.
Nita
Congrats Emily!! I can't believe how far you've come! I remember sitting at the condo at the beach taking turns doing your breathing machine. Boy, that was forever ago! Can't wait til you can come down and play in the surf!! And now, new lungs and all you are still as strong and determined as you were then not to let anything stop you from doing what you want. I missed you at the family reunion 2 years ago. I had so much fun with Peggy She is such an incredible person, it's no wonder you are as strong of a person as you are. And Keith, 'nuff said. He is just as amazing as Peggy. I am trying to convince mom to get on a plane and come out and visit you guys later in the year. But Mrs. I am afraid of flying is hard to persuade. The last time she was on a plane was when she went out to visit your mom when she was 18 or so... We'll get out there one way or another. My thought and prayers and blessings and holy chants are with you. I love you guys and can't wait to see you!
ReplyDeleteSarah
sending you love.
ReplyDeleteWOW!! Great job on the hospital hike! I bet you were chasing down those Grey's Anatomy Doc's! YOU GO GURL! This is all so very amazing and surreal at the same time. The Roach
ReplyDeletes in Florida are kickin' up some love for you lady. Will is keeping up with the blog from (work)Miami. Gordie (between tons of homework and Lacrosse practice/games) Jackson and I are hoooootin' & holllerin' your praises as Keith so eloquently keeps us on the edge of our seats with updates...squeeze his thumb numb for us!!
Emily, congratulations on your "laps" today! Each update from Keith has me awestruck at your swift progress. Probably next he'll be writing that you are doing Yoga with those new lungs and your unstoppable courage! Hope tonight is full of peace and great dreams that nourish your adventurous and beautiful spirit.(as well as relief from the pain....your endurance amazes me, Emily!) Here's a gentle hug.... And a bear hug for Peg & Keith! Hope you all sleep much better tonight. Lots of Love, Gina
ReplyDeleteem, we're so glad to keep hearing good things coming from you today. Keep on truckin'! Aunties Doris and Jewel and Katie send their love and prayers and are waiting every afternoon to read emilysnewlungs, the world's best blog!
ReplyDeleteLove you,
Kathy
Yay! Amazing! I look forward to checking your blog every day :) It's become my routine and it makes me so happy to know things are going well. Keep going! -Jayme
ReplyDeleteEmily,
ReplyDeleteWe are filled with joy. . . Our prayers and thoughts are with you and your family every minute of the day. The memory of our long beautiful dinner with you and Rosanne and the group from the book after taping the Good Morning America segment is stored in a special place in our hearts and we look forward to sharing more such evenings with you and other special friends. Your exuberance, intelligence and wit are present with us when we think of you. The image of you we hold is of you strong, walking, laughing and breathing deeply. This week and I am in Santa Fe and will take in extra breaths of this crisp,clean air and send them to you. Hugs and Kisses, Ellen, Josh + Luca
Go Girllll Goooo
ReplyDeleteSending well wishes, and healing spirits your way..
Pulling big time for UUUUUUUU.
: )
Chris Janowski
Michelle just dedicated our class to you and your amazing strength. She told your incredible story at the beginning, and the night's theme was Gratitude and BREATH!!! And now I'm going to be quite sore tomorrow. =) All my Om nama shivayas were sent directly to you. And my new goal is to be able to do a handstand all by myself by the time you get home. Yup.
ReplyDeleteAre they keeping the goldfish in your line of sight? They better...
Will check in again soon. Have a good night's rest, you've got some more walking to do tomorrow.
Emily, my family has been keeping me posted on how you are doing. I just wanted to wish you well- you're so brave! I'm thinking happy thoughts for you :)
ReplyDeleteLindsay Monroe
Emily,
ReplyDeleteI am so happy for you and your family. Thankyou for sharing your journey on this blog. From everyone @ Calypso, we are cheering you on & thinking of you. Hope your family is keeping your hair looking good while your there...:)
Arianna
Hey Emily! I'm Helena (HeLAINa); we don't know each other but I hope that time comes if I can ever get away from Rabbit Hill and the goats, chickens, dogs and cats. Our blessed Nicky sent me the blog site, and holy COW woman, what you and your family and the docs've accomplished is absolutely soul thrilling! I am AWED at the reality of this DOUBLE lung transplant--I'm a Gray's Anatomy and House addict, but this reality so WAY tops those that I may give them up
ReplyDeleteThat dear donor family: oh thank you, thank you, THANK YOU.
Hey lady, may you be back hiking SOON, but for now, just accomodating to this incredible procedure and all the meds seems like triumph enough, at least for now
I sure hope the pain level drops soon; that's no fun, and I'm sure Keith's thumb will appreciate being less involved.
Oh, SO many good thoughts heading your way, from me and the goats--who are extraordinarily empathetic, by the way: did you know that about them?--and the cats AND the doggies: one is the ancient goat guardian who'll take down low flying airplanes as well as rattlesnakes (a coyote would be a cinch) , and the other is a new Idunnnowhat who just appeared here a couple of months ago, and all I know about her is that she's of a northern breed and likes to "jaw" my arm in an excess of love and possessiveness/ She's still a puppy, really wants to play Bounce with the deer but unfortunately they don't understand Dog games and instead get rather pissy. Sigh.
Anyway, we all send love and the bestest of wishes to you and your extraordinary parents AND those talented docs, and thank yous to the dear donor family.
I hope to meet you one of these days!!
Love,
Helena
This is Vicki in Tallahassee. I just caught up on the updates. Keith, you are quite the writer. I am so happy to hear the good progress Emily is making. I had no idea of the tubes and bags this would involve. It makes me appreciate every breath I take. Nana and Poppy are doing well tonight. Uncle Delma only got in trouble one time. (-:
ReplyDeleteEmily you are proof that miracles do happen.
Dear Emily
ReplyDeleteThey say that gratitude leads to the path of love. I first walked down the hospital hallway, looking for your room, and you were out for a walk! Joining you, we strolled in conversation, with Keith along managing the contraption that follows you everywhere. Then, after 8 laps,at a pace faster than I imagined you could go only four days out of surgery, things seemed normal. Back in your room, I watched the nurse tend to you. In that time, the most incredible minor, no major, thing happened. I watched you breathe. With every inhale, it looked as if you were sipping the most delicious nectar, filling you with ease, delight, and simple grace. The gift of a simple, full, satisfying breath. It left me with tears of joy, the kind of tears of being overwhelmed with relief. So I am grateful for this day, for seeing you, with every breath, nourishing yourself completely. See you tomorrow. Love, Karen