A couple of weeks ago, we were approached by staff and asked if we would be interested in having Evelyn participate in a photo shoot centered around her Berlin Heart. They wanted to capture pictures of her everyday life playing, brushing her hair, and simply being a kid while living with mechanical support.
The reason behind the photos really meant a lot to us. They are updating their Berlin Heart educational materials, and these pictures will be used in brochures for families who may someday find themselves facing the same kind of mechanical support. They will also be used for education and training for medical professionals.
Today was picture day! Evelyn did such a great job and was a total trooper, although after about 15 minutes she had definitely had enough and was ready to be done. We should get the pictures back in the next couple of weeks, and we can’t wait to see them!
But the photo shoot wasn’t the only exciting part of today. We also got to enjoy some much needed time outside! Our amazing Child Life Specialist put together a little carnival in the courtyard for the kids, and Evelyn got to experience all the fun.
She painted rocks, got her face painted, played giant Connect Four, played pumpkin basketball, and—most anticipated of all—got to participate in the doctor dunk tank! 
I also had the chance to meet Evelyn’s distance learning teacher today, and we will be starting school soon! This will be another big adjustment for us as we figure out what works best for her and work to find a new rhythm with school life here in the hospital.
One day at a time, one new adventure at a time. 
How You Can Help
Get your “Hearts for Evelyn” T-Shirt
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What makes our partnership with COTA so great is that they will be with Evelyn throughout her lifetime. Every dollar donated to COTA in honor of Evelyn goes to transplant-related expenses. Thank you for being here with us for Evelyn.