adjective: selfless

1. concerned more with the needs and wishes of others than with one's own; unselfish

Two years ago my cousin, Lindsey made the decision to undergo major surgery and have part of her liver removed from her body. She endured a 9.5 hour long surgery, an extensive hospital stay and months of recovery. She suffered through incredible amounts of pain and nausea. She missed months of work, driving, her social life and just her day to day routine. She did this not for her benefit, she had absolutely nothing to gain. She made a decision knowing all she would have to endure, all she’d sacrifice and for absolutely no gain of her own. I don’t know if you can do anything more selfless than what Lindsey did. 

The gift Lindsey gave me 2 years ago has been the most life changing gift. At two years post transplant I am living a life I truly never thought I’d get to live. I have an incredible, beautiful baby girl who is almost 6 months old. She is absolutely the best thing that has come from Lindsey’s gift of donation. Lindsey made the decision to save my life and what none of us could have known at that time was that she would ultimately play such a huge role in Esmé being here. So while I am thrilled to celebrate being alive today because of Lindsey’s gift two years ago, my biggest celebration is that I get to be a Mom to my miracle girl. She is such a bright light in mine and so many others lives. She’s extra special and I think it’s because she has a little of Lindsey in her. 

I love you Lindsey, I’ll never be able to wrap my mind around the sacrifice you made for me. You are such a gift to me and to my Ezzy girl.