LIFE ON THE SEVENTH FLOOR - An Update From Kristina

We are experiencing a reduction in traffic here in the valley and I have never seen the skies so clear. From my hospital bed I see details of ridges, troughs, saddles and knolls on South Mountain which astound me. I have a clear view of the few planes that head in for landing at Sky Harbor Airport. The Palo Verde trees are yellow in their full bloom on the valley floor below. Even with machines in this Cardiac ICU room beeping around me, it is all very peaceful.
 
The wait for a donor heart has been the hardest on my family—and that saddens me.  I understand it, though. They are powerless to help me, and they love me very much. But God has given me tremendous peace concerning the whole pre-transplant process. This is God’s mercy and grace, which has come through many of your prayers.

In spite of continued exhaustion and the weakening of my heart muscle, I am in good spirits. On Monday, April 26, I had enough negative symptoms that my doctors said it was time for me to come into the hospital. They want me to stay here until a new heart becomes available. This has not been without challenges. I’ve had lots of invasive tests and many procedures this past week. It may sound strange if you don't know me well, but as each hurdle arrives, I am excited to see what God will do next.

My hospital room has a huge window which faces south. At night, the city shines with many colored lights. Nearby is the Sheraton Hotel which now sits empty. It hosts an enormously bright heart shape. They have intentionally chosen to light up special rooms on eight or nine floors, which have created a beautiful heart shining on the city below.  
 
Though the heart is a tribute to our front-line pandemic workers, it has become a nightly reminder to me of God’s everlasting love and grace. He is the one who has allowed me to have lived this long. By his grace I have the privilege and opportunity to receive a new heart.
 
I realize I have thousands of people around the world praying for me. Those prayers have brought me comfort, encouragement, and joy. Thank you for supporting me, and Mark, through these trials with your prayers and love. We deeply appreciate you and look forward to celebrating life with you once again, when I am back on my feet.