This is a picture of Jacob after his very first surgery at 2 days old to remove the blockage in his bladder. I remember looking at him and knowing, “That’s my son,” but I also didn’t feel like he was my baby. I don’t mention this to people, because it may seem weird and cruel. I think it was my soul’s own defense mechanism, attempting not to bond with him in case he didn’t live. 

But after that day, I felt something shift in me. I knew I would fight fiercely for him, and I knew in my bones that he would not only be ok, but that he would thrive. The past 11 years he has done just that… Truly living life and every moment to the fullest (almost to the point of annoyance when I tell him to go brush his teeth and he stops three times to pet the dog, smell the flowers on the table, and kick a soccer ball just for good measure.) 😀

Jacob’s kidney transplant will be his 8th surgery. He’ll tell you he’s an “expert,” and that may be true. One thing I know for sure is that he always has the doctors and nurses wrapped around his finger, joking with them as they wheel him into the OR. 

Please continue to keep us in your prayers and share our story below. We can truly feel all of the love for Jacob!