A Letter from the Other Side

Welcome.

If you have found your way here, you are stepping into a story of survival, transformation, and a second chance.

For a long time, my reality was shaped by lupus — an auto immune disease that eventually affected my kidneys. I knew the silent exhaustion, the relentless fear, and a feeling of a body slowly giving out. But this site isn't just about the illness, nor is it just about the operation that saved my life. It is the full, honest account of my whole journey:

  • The Fight: The years spent living through diagnosis, chronic illness, and the daily battle to hold on.
  • The Gift: The turning point — the transplant, the hospital room, and the moment grace stepped in.
  • The Life Ahead: Waking up on the other side, learning to breathe free, and stepping into a future I almost missed.

I built this space to share every step of that path. Whether you are walking through your own storm or searching for hope, I hope my story reminds you that pain is not the final chapter.

Thank you for being here. Take a breath, take your time, and follow along from the very beginning.

The Road I Never Expected

There were moments when I didn't know where the road would lead me. There were days of fear, waiting, and uncertainty and prayers. Yet somehow, I kept going. PADAYON LANG. (Just keep going/keep moving forward).One day at a time.

There were people who stood beside me, a sister who gave without hesitation, and a second chance I once only hope for. 

Looking back now, I know that even when I couldn't see what was ahead, naa pay paglaom. This is the road that brought me here.

When Hope Became Real

This was one of the moments before my second chance became reality.

My sister and I were signing documents for our living-donor kidney transplant application with my mother as our witness and Miss Yen, our transplant coordinator, guiding us through the process. We submitted everything and waited, hoping for approval and a transplant schedule. The process could take months, bringing uncertainty, questions, and many prayers.

According to the National Kidney Foundation, getting a kidney transplant begins with an evaluation by a transplant team. This process may involve several appointments, medical tests, and discussions before you can be approved for transplant.

For me, those months were filled with questions: ''Will everything be approved? When will the transplant happen? Will everything go as planned?'' I didn't have all the answers. I had to learn to wait, trust the process, and place the things I couldn't control in God's hands.

Your journey may be different from mine. Every transplant case is different. If you're waiting now, take one step at a time. Ask questions. Prepare yourself. Lean on the people who support you and keep your faith.

I am now living a normal life here in Europe with my husband. 

“When the path ahead feels uncertain, a shared story can bring comfort, courage, and the feeling that you are not alone.”

— Second Chance community

Find answers and encouragement

Whether you are waiting, recovering, or supporting someone you love, explore answers to common transplant questions and find a supportive next step.

Stay connected with Second Chance

Christine Mae Buhler

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Explore stories and resources whenever you need encouragement. New perspectives and community updates are shared through the website.

Important medical note

For medical questions or urgent concerns, please contact your transplant team or local healthcare provider.

Have a story or encouragement to share? Connect with the Second Chance community at [[email]].