One year. 

I don’t even know where to begin. I can’t believe it’s been a year since John’s new journey began. Let me start by saying how incredibly thankful we are for the donor and their family. There isn’t a day that goes by that we don’t think about them, pray for them, thank them, and hope they are healing the best they can. I can’t imagine the pain they have felt, but hope someday we can give them a proper thank you. 

This year has been one for the books. Ups, downs, learning curves and triumphs. Oh, and a pandemic on top of trying to keep him healthy and rejection away! There have been laughs, tears, smiles and fears. John has been incredibly strong through it all. He has pushed through the tough parts of healing, and celebrated the new life he’s able to live. He’s been able to enjoy things again, that he hasn’t in years and fly fishing only took 1 iPhone so far 😉 I’ve watched him walk freely with no oxygen back pack in tow, work around the house and yard without losing his breath, and enjoy living life to the fullest. This man is simply amazing. He’s not complained once about the not so fun parts of adjusting to medicines (30+ daily to start) and has actually spent some well deserved “down time” which as many of you know, has never been a strong suit for him. I’m so incredibly proud. This man is nothing short of amazing. He’s not once taken this second chance for granted, and has vowed to live each day with nothing but gratitude, faith and family. I don’t know how he does it, but he does. And damn does he do it well. 

To everyone who has supported him (and us all) along the way, thank you. Seriously, from the bottom of our hearts, we thank you. We are forever grateful for your outpouring of support, your calls, texts and visits. You are all a big reason why we were able to make it a year. We can’t wait for the memories to come, and the experiences to be had. 

So, as we wrap up the day marking 1 year, we are filled with so much gratitude and love.

Here’s to our amazing man! The one who makes it all possible and makes it so easy to be his cheerleaders! Cheers to 1 year, Dad. And to the many more to come! ❤️❤️