Autumn’s grandfather Robert aka “Papa Bear” survived a life-threatening saddle pulmonary embolism in the fall of 2016 and underwent invasive open-heart surgery just last year to remove significant amounts of scar tissue. According to his physician “most people don’t survive these types of blood clots.” Shortly after Autumn was diagnosed with Biliary Atresia at the beginning of 2019, Papa Bear was diagnosed with Lymphoma. It was a hard blow to the family’s morale . . first a sick newbon with Biliary Atresia and now the scary C-word?!? Luckily, Papa’s Lymphoma was located primarily in his right lower leg. Papa Bear underwent several months of chemotherapy and radiation and we are happy to report that Papa Bear is doing very well. His hair is starting to grow back and we hope to get the “all clear” from his oncologist soon. Autumn has a fighting spirit like her Papa Bear. Mommy decided to get a tattoo to honor the strength and resilience both of them continue to exemplify. Mommy is so proud of both Turtle and Papa Bear. We know that once Autumn receives her new liver that she will overcome any hurdles she faces because she has the blood of Papa Bear running through her veins.