One more day of Summer

You know that saying about how you're given the battles you have because you are strong enough to fight them... Well, that has been a saying I've used and shared since I was 10, not only for myself, my family and friends, but just in general. My dad told me something like this when I was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes (T1D). And I've held this belief close since then. Eight years ago my dad was lucky enough to receive a living donor transplant from my Aunt Nancy and I will be eternally grateful to her. But, just as you sometimes overthrow the ball, plan for something and it doesn't quite work out, we are at another turning point. My dad needs another transplant and this time a living donor won't cut it. He needs a cadaver liver and has recently been meeting with various doctors and surgeons. As scary as it is to realize we are waiting for a very specific phone call, I know it is going to be okay because we have loving family and friends offering support. I've always been taught to be a fighter in anything I put my mind too, whether it is academics, athletics, or relationships. My parents taught me to be firm in my beliefs, confident in myself, and hopeful in my future. And just as they shared those qualities with my siblings and I, they exhibit them everyday. I know my dad will get through it because he is a fighter. He has too. To be honest, I won't give him an option otherwise.(I'm am somewhat stubborn, if you did not know). Again, this site is here to keep our loved ones updated and to offer support for everyone. We are a family and in this together. Lilo and Stitch say "Ohana means family and family means no one gets left behind or forgotten." That means we support each other no matter what. We are in this life for the long haul and we are going to enjoy this roller coaster, even with its bumps, turns and twists! So, for now, we are going to lace up those cleats, wipe some dirt on our hands and "use those achy old arms to give us one more day of summer." We appreciate any thoughts and prayers you have and will keep you updated as events unfold. With lots of love, Bailey