We are feeling really great about her progress.  Through perseverance, patience and humor she has moved closer and closer to what many people might describe as a normal life.  While the many drugs she takes can cause some issues, the trade-off is much in our favor.  Side effects of having some trouble with her stomach and some hair loss are tolerable because she can breath, move, talk, walk, and live.  

On this day, the three-month anniversary of Madeline's transplant, we would like to say thank you to everyone who has followed her story and lent incredible support through many kind notes and gestures.  So many times I would read a short note to Madeline in the hospital, both before and after the transplant.  She would listen intently, taking in the good wishes and turning them into resolve and sheer willpower.  There had to be times, even if she did not show it very often, when she was at the end of her rope.  Recovering from her dry run when the lungs turned out to be unusable, coughing up blood from her dying lungs, dealing with endless vest therapies four times a day, having 20 people listen to her lungs every day for no reason, giving blood, checking her blood sugar 5 or 6 times a day, getting the vitals taken every three hours, and eating cold mediocre food.  All these challenges were made so much easier because she knew that all of you were with her in spirit, and cheering her on.  Your comments meant and still mean the world to both of us.  We could not have made it without your kindness and good wishes.

Since Madeline walked in the door, we have had great support here at home.  Many people have come to take care of Madeline as I went back to work in April.  Madeline was not allowed to be alone for several more weeks.  Many friends came over to spend the day with her, and some people came every week and several times a week.  Not only were they here, but they would take her to the clinic several times a week, sometimes for several hours at a time.   I could call people and they would come through time and time again.  It was good for me to get back to my routine and be present for my students, and it was good for Madeline to have a great group of friends to spend time with.  So thank you to all our wonderful caretakers who shared of the their time and energy these past several weeks.

My work colleagues have been incredibly supportive.  I missed about 25 days of school this spring.  I was covered and supported in every way.  My two band colleagues covered all my classes along with a great sub.  The entire music department had my back and offered so much emotional support.  My principal and all the wonderful people who have become friends over the years offered so many kind words and gestures, that I was truly overwhelmed.  I cannot begin to tell all of you how your patience and kindness helped both of us during the past year.  

Our families have been great.  Through visits, notes and phone calls, we have felt their love from miles away.  And the visits were great.  And it was great to reconnect with some family that we do not get to see very often.  Thank you for your presence in our lives.  

I don't think we truly appreciated how fortunate we are to have the family and friends that we do.  We are the first to admit we are complacent in keeping up with everyone.  We are just so thankful for everyone's love and support.  From long-lost college buddies, to friends of friends of friends who have posted notes to us on this site, we humbly say thank you. 

We are going to end the blog tonight.  I hope to make Madeline a book of all the posts and comments, so we can look back when things get tough and feel that support again.  Please reach out to us on facebook, by phone and in person.  We are committed to rejoining the world in every way possible and reconnect with all our friends.  We love you all, and thank you so much for your continued support.  

Dave and Madeline.