The Gift of Life, Organ and Tissue Donation Awareness Week, Op-Ed

NOTE: The following is an op-ed from Jessica Carver of Dartmouth, a double-lung donor-recipient.

To look at me, you'd never know that just over a year and a half ago I was fighting for my life, battling cystic fibrosis. That's when I was at my worst, wondering how much time I had left. But then I received a phone call that led to my second chance at life. A double-lung transplant on Dec. 13, 2012.

Every day I was at war with my lungs. Fighting for each breath. All my energy spent on breathing and little left for anything else. However, although the circumstances were serious, I didn't waste any time feeling negative about my situation, instead my oxygen tank, wheelchair and I went out in the city and had a blast. I made many transplant friends and together we made incredible memories. "Transplantland" is an amazing and inspiring place.

I also drew strength from the support of my family, friends and hometown and shared, and continue to share, my story through my online blog, Live Laugh Lungs.

I received the most selfless, priceless gift a person could give. Because someone made the decision to register as an organ donor, and have the discussion with their family, I am alive today. I don't have words to describe my gratitude for those people. They are my heroes.

How can I possibly explain my life now? Today, I can finally envision a future. I am as healthy as I could ever dream of being. I am not attached to oxygen tubing, I no longer need a feeding tube, I don't require a wheelchair, I don't gasp for breath, coughing is no longer the background music to my life, and I don't have to rely on others every day. Cystic Fibrosis and the transplant have given me incredible opportunities and experiences. Everyone has a story, this just happens to be mine. I know, and continue to meet, many others fighting Cystic Fibrosis and/or waiting for transplant -- I advocate strongly for both. I ask people to have conversations about organ donation and think of the significance it has. I am living the miracle of organ donation.

I hope, during Organ and Tissue Donation Awareness Week, which lasts until April 27, or any time of the year, you'll discuss organ donation with your family, and register as a donor.

For more information, I encourage you to go www.legacyoflife.ns.ca .