Jody,

Two years? Already?

Two years ago today, you and Gage (with the love and support of hundreds of people) were both wheeled into operating rooms across the street from each other and began what was Gage’s next chapter.

I could have never guessed that 7 years ago when Gage was diagnosed with PKD that he would end of getting a kidney from someone from church…you! The journey to that transplant (and beyond) has been a challenging one, but one of the highlights of our journey is the blending of our families, now forever linked by your incredible gift.

Watching Gage decline in health to nearly dying was heart breaking. It was a struggle to believe that he would actually get a kidney and live off of dialysis. I know that early in our PKD/OMA journey you were a supporter of our family. I always felt that you were sending me extra doses of compassion and understanding when you saw me each Sunday.

I remember the night you gave Gage your kidney and as I sat in the ICU listening to the hushed voices, the beeps of the machines hooked to him and the other machines with lights keeping children alive throughout the unit I was so relieved you were okay. I remember realizing that night how I’d been holding my emotions in about my worry for you because I was so consumed with my worry for Gage. I remember trying to put myself in your position; watching from the outside realizing you could help save my son. I try to imagine how it might have felt to talk with your amazing family and tell them that you wanted to do this. For my son. I try to realize how it must have felt for you to go through months of testing and be put on hold and wait. And while I can’t truly understand from your perspective, I know that you understood how I felt. How I felt watching my boy get sicker and sicker and then watching him just exist. And wait. Wait for his life to begin again.

I don’t know how one expresses their gratitude for saving their son’s life. I can’t figure out the words (even though I keep trying). In your honor, I can only try to give Gage the best life he’s capable of having…one with hope and fun and exploration and compassion.

Because what you have given me is hope and fun and exploration and compassion. I see and relearn these as I continue to navigate a better life for him. For our boy – mine and yours. The boy, who today, is very alive.

Thank you for following your heart that led you to him. The boy who undoubtedly has challenging times behind and in front of him. As I watch his life unfold, I’m so grateful he has the opportunity to grasp it.

Love you and that kidney of yours. Happy Kidneyversary.

Julia (Gage’s lucky mom)