Back To Boston

It’s been a long seven months, five of them here in North Carolina, but finally Amber is healthy and happy. She still has some obstacles to overcome and her health will always be an issue, but she now has new lungs that work perfectly so that she can live, and have a good foundation on which to build a healthier life. There were times when we doubted that she would still be with us now, but many things were in her favor and she is a strong fighter , not giving up when many of us might.
We are so fortunate to have such excellent health care here at Duke and to have this opportunity for a second transplant! Amber, as well as all of us, realizes just how lucky she is. We have also been blessed with so many people who have made this journey easier…not only in this close call, but throughout the years of Amber’s battle. Thank you so very much for all of your calls, emails, cards, gifts, food, prayers, hugs and kisses. Thank you for your words of comfort and encouragement, and for making us laugh. Thank you for all of your fund raising efforts (thank God we did that!), and unwavering support. Prayers were said from coast to coast and even abroad……Thank you!!!
Now it’s time for me to return to Boston. Amber is flying solo with her sister in close range. I still have my job waiting for me, thanks to some very generous and caring people. I also have my “new” home on Vine St. which misses me, and I them. I had just moved in there when Amber became so sick, and life wasn’t normal anymore.
I want to thank Scott Gonzales for making this forum possible via this website he created and maintains. He also started the A.W. Transplant Fund a few years ago. Thanks to Leah, the best sister who has stayed by Amber’s side through thick and very thin, and to my dear sister Susie who has stayed by my side, and I don’t know what I would have done without her. She has been my pillar of strength, and I love her very much. My brother David and sister Terri for bringing us here and finding us a place to live and all their love and support. Thanks to my other brother Eddie and sister Kat for being here for us , and my Dad for always being there for me, no matter what. To my great friends Lisa, Joannie and Flo who came to visit us and always give a shoulder, and a smile..I love you! For my friends at work who are always supportive and caring..thank you all!!!! To all our friends in Oregon, especially the fabulous five who are Amber’s lifelines……what a special blessing of friendship!! Thanks to Fred and Rick for that famous trip together to bring us our stuff from MA…to Fred for being a good father and to Rick for keeping me sane. There are so many of you to thank…..just know you are in my heart.
I will write again from Boston to keep you posted.
Love to all! Laurie