RE-BIRTH

Dearest Mike,
Yesterday we went to the University of Chicago Stem Cell Survivor celebration. I thought how lucky we were to be in attendance...and to be able to call ourselves "Survivors". As we listened to others share their stories, I knew that we both felt many emotions. Although we recognized some details of the speakers' stories to be similiar to ours, our story is truly unique. The depth of our emotions and our commitment to each other defy explanation. It is heartfelt and present when sharing some of the most simple and routine things in life. Watching you at times can make me "tear up", because life has become so seemingly "normal", and I get overwhelmed with gratitude and love for you. Yesterday, during the presentation, we held hands and I felt like we were the "Warrior Couple"...united and strong! After the event we went back to Bernard Mitchell Hospital 6 NW, the transplant isolation wing. It was amazing! Seeing My Love, Jackie, and the rest of your nurses was very exciting. They were shocked at how good you looked. Of course, you were dressed in a suit and tie. They had only seen you in a not -so -fashionable hospital gown. We passed by your room and felt so grateful for the realization of just how far we've come.
What a year this has been! We recognize the supreme effort of so many people to help us get through this year; Doctors, Nurses, Family, Friends, and of course, your donor. We were emotionally uplifted by the love and support of our family and friends...and continue to be. We are so grateful to everyone for helping us. You cleaned our house, fed us, visited and chauffeured Mike to appointments. You celebrated with us, and encouraged us when we felt ourselves stumble. You acted like a well-coordinated drill team. YOU are all our "heroes" for "stepping up" when it was needed. Mike and I are eternally grateful to you. If we could give anything to you...it would be the gift of "time" to enjoy all life's blessings. Audrey Hepburn is quoted as saying, "Remember, if you ever need a helping hand, it is at the end of your arm. As you get older, you must remember that you have a second hand. The First one is to help yourself. The second one is to help others." It is clear that our family and friends know this to be true. To all of you- Thank you for helping us... by extending your hand. We LOVE YOU!
"Michael Dear"...Have I told you lately that I love you? Thank you for the love, strength and determination you show every day. You are "one in a million". Happy Rebirth! I'm so proud of you!
I LOVE YOU! Cookie