Family---by Robin

At times, it is difficult to decide where we want to go with this blog. We want to both encourage organ donation and to express our gratitude to our donor families, but I think that Deb and I both agree, we also have a lot of appreciation for our families. The progresion to liver failure is generally over a course of years. Often, it's the family that is left with the burden of care. That was certainly the situation in my case. I know I have never personally thanked them and I want to take this opportunity to do so.
Tom, my husband, you are my foundation and the rock I lean on. You are here in the best and the worst of times. I always thought I would be your caretaker but you proved me absolutely wrong...and you know how hard it is for me to admit any wrong. I will always be amazed that I got so lucky to have had you come into my life. You make my heart smile.
Shane and Jill, my children, I know it was hard to see your Mom when she didn't even know you existed. I'm greatful for the times you invited me to your house to share in the "grands" lives and when you brought them to my house when I couldn't drive. You have listened to me when I babbled with senseless thoughts and wild dreams. Thank you for the calls, cards and visits when you had your own families to care for.
Scott, my son of another Mom, I appreciate you being so much like your Father. You have always been there for me. One of my fondest memories is being in the hospital and my asking you promise me that you would "make" your Dad put me in a nursing home if I became more confused...like you can MAKE him do anything he didn't want to do.
Lynn and Gail, my sisters, you both offered to be living donors along with my daughter, Jill, so that pretty much sums up our relationship. Lynn, you went with me when I was air-lifted to Miami and Gail, you sat with Tom during my actual transplant. I'm so glad I was given you as my sisters.
Callie, Sarah, Rhiannon, Madison and Rylie, my grandest of grandaughters, you are my joy. My spirits soar when each of you is near. Rylie, I almost didn't get to meet you and now you are two years old. You girls didn't know this but I always carried a picture of y'all when I was in the hospital. I needed to know you were near.
Last, I want to say thanks to friends and extended family. I won't list names because I don't want to leave anyone out, and the list would be quite long. I have the best group of friends from California to Florida that one could imagine.
So, today, I give thanks to family.