Monday, July 27, 2009

Day 0: A New Beginning

Today was a new beginning for AJ. For the rest of his life, he will celebrate this day as a second birthday of sorts. A second gift of life. The gravity of the events was not lost on him. When it was time for Austin to leave this afternoon and return to the apartment, AJ broke down, hugged Austin and thanked him for his marrow. Austin smiled, ever appreciative of the affection of his older brother. Austin told AJ that he would miss him and hoped he would be able to come home soon. Cindy and I are truly blessed.

11 comments:

The Green Brook Kellys said...

Wonderful to see Austin and AJ together after the transplant. Certainly a day to remember for the rest of their lives. God is surely good...

Anna Fennell said...

I love the smiles on both of your faces.

:) Love,
Anna

irene berkson said...

Ok, I'm gonna cry now. Of happiness of course. I am still praying that AJ's body accepts the new marrow. Good luck with everything.

Anonymous said...

AJ,
I just found a picture of you and David "camping" in your old playroom. It was before the two of you started kindergarten and you were having a sleep-over. Guess who was in the picture ...Blue Jean! What a good friend to have - I wish I had a Blue Jean :). We will continue to pray for your healing and for you to get all of your strength back! We love you sooooo much!

Love,
Lindsay and David

The McArthurs said...

AJ-

It's great to see how well you and Austin are doing! We get excited every time you update the blog, especially when there are pictures. Really, it's like your family is the team and we are the fans. We are cheering for you! We are also praying for you and your family every day.

Lots of love from the McArthurs!

Ben Sam Lily Freddie & Addy

Anonymous said...

OK AJ one down and 27 to go. Hang in there and stay strong for mom and dad. Your a hero so I know you will. Is there someting special that you would like for austin to have. Just tell grammy and i will see that he gets it from you. Love Gary

Unknown said...

Thinking of you and wishing you well!!!

Sharon P. said...

Hi AJ,
We love the pictures of you and Austin. You are both very brave. We pray things will go well with your transplant. (Although we're sure it will, based on your courage and strength).

Hang in there and keep smiling!!!
♥♥♥Sharon and Brielle

Anonymous said...

Great to see the smiles. Austin, you are such a brave little brother. AJ, hand in there. We are praying for you every day.

The Martins -
Kim, Clay, Bess and Cate

Anonymous said...

We are so proud of you two! You are truly two of the greatest great-nephews ever. Keeping everyone in our prayers.
All our love,
Aunt Marilyn, Uncle Steve, Andy and Phil

Aaron and Erica said...

What a beautiful picture of two very brave brothers. Thanks for sharing it with us.

Still praying for you guys...