September 26th.. a day FOR THE BOOKS. We got to meet, in person, the ever so sweet Marissa (Justin’s recipient), and our Annie (Elie’s donor) and their families. We had the privilege of hugging them all and expressing our gratitude in person. Annie felt like family already. I had been in contact with her prior to meeting officially that day. I wish I could express how sincere, and lionhearted Annie is. We are truly, abundantly blessed that she was Elie’s donor. I cross my fingers that Annie’s liver segment will also somehow, magically, inherently instill the servants heart, courage, faith, and compassion that Annie has.. and be given to my daughter too… oh, and her baking skills.. because Annie is a talented baker.. and our oven could be utilized more often (and our air fryer less often). Her, her husband and their cute kiddos will forever be a part of our family (along with her family- s/o to Aunt Eliza). I look forward to this forever family addition! The same goes for Marissa and her family. Marissa had just turned 16, and after getting to talk with her and watch her carry herself with such positivity and strength, we were in awe (and quite frankly.. impressed). This girl is admirable for her faith, whit (she was funny- my kind of girl!), and confidence. It is contagious! The strongest 16 year old you will ever meet. It was comforting to sit with her parents and talk about our experiences; our favorite nurses, liver lab numbers, and our Million dollar Mercedes babies (our girls have the same scar from their transplants- both resembling a Mercedes logo). Her mother has been a great example of strength, and always seeking the good. We text both Annie, and Marissa’s mother now- getting & giving updates. I am over the moon with our new addition(s) to the Tibbs household.
You ever get second-hand happiness? Not used or passed down happiness like the kind of happiness you find at the thrift store or something.. it’s kind of like second hand embarrassment.. only with the warmest of feelings, and pure joy for someone else, and it having nothing to do with you. Hearing Marissa’s mother speak of their gratitude for Justin, knowing Annie is okay post-op, healing and happy to see Elie- and seeing her sweet kids play.. I just got the biggest second hand happiness. I am so so grateful for these people, and i’m thankful for their happiness.
It was the perfect way to end our time living away from home.. 3 months later, and we are back home! Welcomed by the sweetest “Welcome Home” decor from my in-laws! The best surprise, and so exciting for Luca to see while pulling up. Eliana’s labs have been stable, and within range. She is grunting, growling, monkey toe-ing (yes, she is holding and picking up everything.. with her toes) and wiggle-worming around. We are forever indebted to our people. My mom (Lola) for quite literally, packing up and moving in from Kansas to Utah, for the three months post transplant. She kept us all afloat while we all recovered. She’s my hero. Every one needs a Lola in their life, and it was good to be reminded how selfless she is- how lucky we are to have her. To my father and mother in laws, for the endless support physically and from home. Both Justin and I’s parents chose to be there, experiencing all of this first hand alongside us- and we are so grateful. My sister, and my favorite nephew.. for making the 4 hour drive multiple times.. to my sister for getting me through the hardest week of my life. There’s something about calling a person, and feeling safe enough to ugly cry into the phone (i know she could feel my ugliness through these calls),me- making no sense- but her understanding completely. Stepping up for us when she has her own stressors in life, and a single parent, I couldn’t begin to thank her enough. My favorite nephew, for always showing up with a smile, and wilding out with our Luca and excited to see us all- made me so happy every time. We truly are so lucky. Our people are the best! It is so good to be home, and we are ready to live our “new normal”.
As always, thank you for your continued prayers, and contributions to COTA in honor of Eliana! We are grateful for YOU too!
