I know, I know. It’s been way too long! But I’m back and have so much to share. First of all, we are delighted to have made it to TWO years…and counting. 10 days and 2 years ago Chloe saved me with her gift of life and we honored her this year and will do so for years to come, every June 6th. It’s taken me a while to digest all of the emotions surrounding that day and I’ve spent hours collecting my thoughts and just remembering her. Now that I know Chloe’s name and have seen her face through photos, it’s like remembering a friend, someone very special who can never be replaced but only honored for the legacy they left behind. This year, compared to last, was more so a celebration of her and of all donors who make life possible. Last year we were still in shock over the miracle that we encountered and wondered what it was like to be on the other side. We didn’t know Chloe at that time but knew somewhere, some family was devastated and trying to keep afloat admits their worst fear – she had been gone one year. Now two years have passed.
What do I say when there’s so much to say? How do I remember her laugh when I’ve never even heard it? How do I send love to her family now, when they are finding it hard to breathe? I hope that as this month passes and as the night falls, a twinkling star shines bright for them, with my name on it.
Two years ago the most difficult thing in life happened to them. They lost their daughter, the baby in the family who had a huge smile that attracted many, many friends and admirers. She was open hearted.
Two years ago we heard the most difficult news and realized that my life might be coming to an end. In parallel, two sets of lives were spiraling out of control and we all wanted nothing more than to fix it. But, the fixing was left for God to handle. And he did.
I remember the words, “Melissa, you are going to the OR. They found a heart.” It was a Wednesday, 5:30am, and with instant tears and trembling hands I reached for the phone to call Dave. About twelve hours later, I woke up and told him, “Go play golf and let me sleep.” I guess we all knew then, at that moment that this worked. This gift of life does actually save.
But we also knew that while we were so alive in those days, a donor family out there was numb to the world. They were planning a funeral and saying goodbye. We were saying hello to a new start. Maybe one day we will meet and I can show them how beautiful my world is now. Until then, forever we are grateful and forever we hope to see twinkling stars for Chloe’s family.
