I know exactly what you're saying. I'm kinda thinking along the same lines myself. I was told that I can write something, and the transplant coordinator can pass it on. Or, I can have the tx coordinator pass on my info - and if they would want to open the lines of communication, they will contact me.
My 1st tx anniversary is May 18... and now that everything is settled, I really DO want to be in touch with them. I do not know anything at this point. I don't knwo if my person was male/female - child/adult, etc.
I know that whatever the answer would be, it would be difficult to deal with. But I also want the family to know how the organ of their loved one gave me my life back. As hard as it is for them to hear from me, it will comfort them too.
So this is a very tough situation - for both sides. Its both rewarding, and difficult.
I've asked around for suggestions on how to deal with this. The overall consensus was that the donor family DOES want to hear about the recipient (us). How much they want to know is up to them.
I was thinking along the lines of a 3/4 to a full page letter. Basically saying who I am, the kidney failure, dialysis, and then the tx. Without any details. Then a bit about my life now. To finish the letter I'd thank them, and ask if they'd like to be in touch.
Whatever answer (if I get one) I get, I'll go from there. I don't want to do it on my tx anniversary, bc even though it seems fitting to me, it may be too hard for them - being that that's the same day as the DEATH of their loved one. But I would like to send the letter about a month after my anniversary. At that pont - a year has come and gone, and to a certain extent they are more "over it".
Honestly, I thought about contacting them many times before, but then decided to back out of it. I've already written 2 letters, but just tore 'em up. But now, I feel that I AM ready, and will do something in June.
In your case, you got it in December. So really now would be a good time if you feel ready for it. Any time is a good time. Except in my opinion - "december" is NOT a good time, as I said above.
Good luck! And don't feel rushed.. take your time, and do it whenever you feel like you want to
~rachel