Kidney/Pancreas
Turning 40: A Milestone of Grit, Grace, and Gratitude
Today is a milestone birthday for me.
They say life begins at 40, they say 40 is scary. "over the hill". I believe that, for me, it’s the age where everything I’ve lived through, fought for, and believed in finally comes into full view. Not as a finish line, but as a vantage point. A place to stop, look around, and acknowledge just how far I’ve come.
I was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes in the 7th grade. While other kids were worrying about homework and friendships, I was learning how to survive. I learned how to count carbs, give myself insulin, manage highs and lows, and live with a disease that doesn’t take a day off. That diagnosis could have derailed me but it didn’t. It taught me resilience, discipline, and how to keep going when things feel impossible.
Decades later, the long-term effects of diabetes caught up with me. At 37, I underwent a kidney and pancreas transplant. That journey was one of the hardest of my life. The waiting. The surgery. The recovery. The fear. But also, the hope. The gratitude. The second chance. That transplant didn’t just save my life it changed it. It gave me freedom from daily insulin injections, and a new appreciation for what it means to feel well.
Now, as I turn 40, I look around at my life and feel nothing but gratitude.
I’m married to my best friend, a partner who’s been there through every high and low, literally and figuratively. His strength, patience, and love have carried me through more than he probably realizes. Together, we’re raising the most amazing son. Watching him grow into a kind, curious, and joyful little human is my proudest accomplishment. Every day I get to be his mom feels like a miracle.
I’ve built a successful career doing work I’m proud of. I’ve faced enormous challenges and I’ve come out stronger on the other side. I’m not just living. I’m thriving. And yes, I’m living what many would call the American Dream. But to me, that dream isn’t just about a house or a job or stability. It’s about health. It’s about love. It’s about being able to wake up each morning and say, "I’m still here. And I’m still me."
Turning 40 isn’t scary. It’s powerful. Because I know exactly what it took to get here. And I’m walking into this next decade with open eyes, a full heart, and a quiet kind of strength I’ve earned every single day of my life.
So here’s to 40. To health. To family. To second chances. And to every single step that brought me here.
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Transplant Patient
Happy Birthday!
These kinds of momentous occasions feel especially big after transplant, and I hope you get to celebrate YOU with the people who love you today
Transplant Patient
Happy bday sweet @TServold ! You came into my life right after we started TL and I have followed you and your family since. Beautiful and strong - determined and persistent! Will never forget my bday dinner last summer and wish I could toast you with pink champagne!!
Happy happy birthday to you Taryn!!!