Ashley Russell

My name is Ashley Russell, I’m 18 and have lived in Ada most of my life. You may remember seeing an article about me some time ago needing a liver transplant.

On April 10, 2008, I celebrated my one year anniversary with my new liver! I have Cystic Fibrosis (CF), a genetic disease there is a 6% chance of developing Cirrhosis of the liver when you have CF. Unfortunately, I fell in that 6%, but on the other hand my lungs are healthy and strong, for that I am blessed.

On April 10, 2007, I received a liver transplant. My blood type is rare so I had been listed for a while. I am so thankful to the donor family that allowed this. I could only imagine how they must have felt at losing their loved one. What they did was give me a second chance at life. I am no longer in pain all of the time, don’t sleep all of the time and can enjoy any activity I’d like.

I’m so thankful for the second chance I’ve received, a chance to enjoy life and live it to the fullest. I appreciate all of my doctors. They’ve all been wonderful!

In particular Dr. Pat Mason at CAIHF, because he’s been my doctor for as long as I can remember and because of him and Jesus I’ve never been too sick. I’d like to give a very special thank you to everyone who took part in the endeavor to see me have a better life! I was on so many prayer lists all over the country and we believe prayers were answered when I received the perfect liver for me. We had many fundraisers and lots of people worked, donated items, and donated money. Some people I have never even met, donated. I felt as if I was blessed then, even during the time we wondered how much longer it would be? Thank you all for your contributions and prayers!

Without my family I couldn’t have done this. Especially my Mom. She’s been there with me since day one. She’s never given up on me and has taught me to be strong through everything.

God has held me in His hand and has given me comfort and security. My Mom and I were never scared or questioning (maybe nervous). Mom had full faith in God to protect me and I knew God wasn’t done with me and wanted me here longer to live for Him and to make Him proud.

God will never give you more than you can bear and I believe that. But I also believe some are stronger than others.

My grandparents Nadine and Buck Owens were a stronghold for both my Mom and I through all of this. Thankfully my Poppa got to be with me for my one-year celebration. He passed away on April 14 at rest and in peace knowing I am well.

I intend to go to ECU next spring and hope to major in Law. This is a dream that I never had before the transplant. I never felt well enough to think that far ahead. I feel so blessed and fortunate!

So today, I’m healthy, strong and living a happy life. Thank you all!

God Bless, Ashley