After 2 months, we made it home! The best part was finally hugging my sweetest boy, Vince.  I was able to surprise him at pick up after school. I couldn’t hold back the tears! We are back together as a family and life could not be sweeter.

Reflecting on our time away, Vanessa was so brave and strong! She had her final runs of hemodialysis, two middle of the night trips to the ER, two surgeries, over three weeks in the hospital including 11 unanticipated days in the ICU, and more. She did not love any of it to say the least as you would expect from a 3-year-old but the little warrior she is, she made it through and we are so proud of her! 

We are forever grateful for the exceptional care both Vanessa and Stephen received at Stanford. Their expertise, collaboration, and passion for their work will always be remembered. With some unexpected turns, lots of nerves, scary moments, and joyous moments the team of doctors and nurses were so supportive and truly helped carry me through!  

Post hospital discharge and in between all the follow-up appointments we had some fun taking walks/hikes and enjoyed the beautiful weather and views. Vanessa kept me moving and made sure if there was a hill to climb that we made it to the top!  She is a ball of energy and at the end of the day would be looking at herself in the mirror while jumping on the bed singing songs while I am trying to go to sleep!

Since returning home, Vanessa had her first transplant follow-up appointment at Phoenix Children’s Hospital and received a great report. She will continue to get labs and see her kidney doctor once a week. She is doing very well and loves her new kidney!  Thank you, “Dada”!