So much of my life is wrapped up in my business - there is this intermingle between the two that it is sometimes hard to define the difference. I have a passion for my business and pour so much of myself into it. But there is this whole personal side to my life. And many times that personal side seeps into Katydid. It is the beauty of owning your own business, that sometimes the business takes over and sometimes the personal life takes over.
Back in February and March, my personal life took over. I turned off all my machines, cancelled all my shows and walked away from the daily business. I am so blessed that I could do such a thing because my husband and my best friend needed me!
On February 21st, my hubby donated his kidney to my best friend!
Ashley, who has Cystic Fibrosis, is my dearest college friend. We first met during our study abroad in London my Junior year of college. We became fast friends and traveled the world together - up until this past year, she was the one I had visited the most countries with. She also shared in the benefit of my internship with a fashion company in London - lets just say we both returned home with way to much luggage.
Eleven years ago she received a double lung transplant. Two years ago she was put on the kidney donor list, but knowing her health issues, she needed to find a living donor. So Jeremy and I began the process of becoming a donor in 2010. It took nearly1 1/2 years to set a surgery date - February 21st. So for over a month, we relocated to UNC hospital in Chapel Hill, NC.
Both surgeries were a success, and I got to take on a new role of being "nurse". I continued to take care of Jeremy once we returned home - he was on medical leave for over 6 weeks.
During that time, I was so thankful to be able to devote my entire attention to both my best friend and husband. This is just one of the many reasons I love my job!!!
Throughout the kidney donation journey, Jeremy and I wrote a
blog to document the experience. The entire story is truely beautiful and inspirational (not to mention all the stress, frustration and set backs). I am so proud to have such a wonderful husband who would make the most selfless act.
And now, over 5 months later, both Ashley and Jeremy are doing Great!
If you would like to read the whole story (in much better details), visit our Blog. www.jeremy-kate.com. This post
HERE is a great starting point to catch up on the donation.
Throughout this entire journey, Jeremy and I have been so touched by the love and support from our friends and family. In addition, I was so thankful for all my wonderful customers who were flexible with delivery dates and understanding when I didn't return emails. Thank you for supporting me these past few months - it means the world to me.
