(Inspired by Van Halen)

Right now, there is no tomorrow…

When I think about what my life could look like after a successful kidney transplant, the lyrics of Van Halen’s iconic song “Right Now” start playing in my mind. The urgency, the energy, the undeniable call to seize the moment—these are the things that fill my thoughts. Because, you see, right now, my life is in a holding pattern, dictated by the whirring sound of a dialysis machine. But with a transplant, everything changes. The shackles of illness fall away, and suddenly, possibilities unfold that once seemed distant dreams.

So, let us take a journey, a leap of faith, into a future where I have received that life-saving gift—a kidney transplant. Let us explore what my life could be, right now, if I got that second chance.

Right Now, I am Walking in the Park with Derek

Let us start with a simple pleasure, something I have missed more than I can express. Derek, my beloved corgi, always loved our walks in the park. I can still see him, his short legs working overtime, his tail wagging with pure joy. If I had a new kidney, right now, I would be out there with him, feeling the earth beneath my feet, breathing in the crisp air, and letting the sun warm my skin.

I imagine Derek beside me, looking up with those trusting eyes, and I would feel a wave of peace wash over me. The kind of peace that comes from being able to do the things that once seemed so ordinary, but now feels like a gift.

Right Now, I am Traveling to New Places

Traveling was once a passion of mine. There is something about the thrill of exploring a new place, meeting new people, and experiencing diverse cultures that makes life so rich. If I had a transplant, right now, I would be planning trips I have only dreamed about. I would start with Europe—taking in the history, the architecture, the food. Or I would head to the Pacific Northwest, where the mountains and the sea meet in a breathtaking display of nature’s beauty.

I would walk along unfamiliar streets, dine in quaint little cafes, and marvel at the world’s wonders, large and small. And every step I took, every mile I traveled, would be a reminder that life is meant to be lived fully, right now.

Right Now, I am Back at Work, Doing What I Love

One of the hardest things about being on dialysis is the impact it has had on my career. As someone who has spent decades in the publishing industry, helping bring stories to life, the inability to work as I once did has been a bitter pill to swallow. But with a new kidney, right now, I would be back in the saddle, diving into projects with the enthusiasm that comes from a renewed lease on life.

I would be meeting with authors, discussing their visions, and helping them navigate the complex world of publishing. I would be pouring my knowledge and experience into every project, knowing that I am not just contributing to the industry—I am doing what I was meant to do. The energy, the creativity, the drive—they had all come rushing back, because right now, I would have the health and the strength to make it all happen.

Right Now, I am Reconnecting with Friends and Family

When you are dealing with a chronic illness, it is easy to become isolated. The fatigue, the appointments, the sheer effort it takes to get through the day—they can all keep you from spending time with the people who matter most. But with a transplant, right now, I would be reconnecting with friends and family, making up for lost time.

I would host dinners, plan outings, and simply enjoy the company of those who have stood by me through thick and thin. We would laugh, we would reminisce, and we would make new memories—because right now, I would have the energy and the vitality to be fully present in these moments.

Right Now, I am Writing My Story

There is a story inside of me that I have been waiting to tell. It is the story of my journey with Chronic Kidney Disease, the difficulties, the hopes and fears, and the incredible people who have supported me along the way. With a new kidney, right now, I would be sitting down at my desk, pen in hand (or more likely, fingers on the keyboard), pouring my heart and soul into this story.

I would write about the challenges, yes, but more importantly, I would write about the triumphs—the moments of grace, the acts of kindness, the resilience that has kept me going. And as I wrote, I would be reminded that every word is a testament to the power of hope, and the belief that right now, anything is possible.

Right Now, I am Embracing Life Fully

Ultimately, a successful transplant would mean that I could embrace life fully, right now. No more waiting, no more wondering what could be—I would be living it. I would wake up each day with a sense of purpose, knowing that I have been given a gift, and it is up to me to make the most of it.

I would pursue my passions, whether it is writing, speaking, or simply enjoying the beauty of a sunset. I would take on new challenges, push myself in ways I have not been able to for years. And I would do it all with the knowledge that right now is all we really have.

Right Now, I am Grateful Beyond Measure

Most importantly, if I had a transplant, right now, I would be filled with an overwhelming sense of gratitude. Gratitude for the donor who gave me a second chance, for the medical team who made it possible, for the friends and family who never gave up on me. Every breath, every step, every moment would be a reminder of the preciousness of life, and the incredible gift I have been given.

I would carry that gratitude with me in everything I do, paying it forward whenever and however I can. Whether it is through my work, my writing, or simply by being there for others, I would make it my mission to honor the gift of life that has been given to me.

Right Now, it is Time to Act

As I write this, I am still waiting for that transplant, still dreaming of what life could be. But here is the thing—right now, I am also doing everything I can to make that dream a reality. I am spreading the word, reaching out, and hoping that someone, somewhere, will be moved to take that incredible step of becoming a living donor.

Van Halen’s song is a call to action, a reminder that life is happening right now, and we cannot afford to wait. So, if you are reading this, I hope you will consider what you could be doing right now to help me, or someone else in need. Whether it is becoming a donor, supporting a cause, or simply reaching out to someone who is struggling—right now is the time to act.

Because right now, there is a future waiting, and it is one filled with hope, possibility, and the chance to truly live.

Right now, it is your tomorrow. Right now, it is everything.

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RIP Eddie