What Does Independence Mean to You?

Jeanmarie

For many of us living with a chronic illness or transplant, independence means freedom to live life our way—one choice, one step, one breath at a time. 

For me, my transplant gives me the freedom without dialysis, so I can travel without being tied to a dialysis machine.

What’s your definition of independence? Please share it in the comments and let’s celebrate our strength together. 

Coco

Independence means everything to me.

AliEm14

I think for me, especially now with transplant, I've come to value interdependence over independence. Whether chosen or not, I've become so connected to other things and people and environments and ways of living. Each of these connection points has opened up something new in me. So while I may not always have chosen it (and while I do really love not being hooked up to machines all the time and the rigidity of my pre-transplant treatment plan) I do try to see the beauty in all of the ways I am connected to the world around me

Ldybug97

Independence means living fully after transplant owning my story, managing my health, and honoring the gift that saved my life. It’s finding strength in each step and purpose in every breath.

TiaBean

Independence means smiling. Things can be so unforgiving, but I find my smile frees me to be independent. Finding that smallest reason to smile opens up worlds, your soul, and really honors the gift I was given. Independence is being able to find happiness.