One year ago today...

One year ago today our lives changed forever. At the time, we couldn't possibly comprehend exactly what that meant. Our lives revolved around machines, medicines, feeding schedules, shots, and constant vomiting for so long that it was our new normal. We knew that our life after transplant would be better, but never in a million years did I imagine it could be this good. 

In the last few months, Parker's eating has increased dramatically. In fact, in the last couple of weeks he has started to eat and drink enough by mouth that we only have to give him water through his tube at night to keep his kidney happy. It's such a big difference from the days of revolving our daily schedules around making sure he went to sleep at a certain time for nap and bedtime in order for him to get in enough food. It was a carefully orchestrated schedule and a serious math formula to figure this out. 

Because he is eating so well now, Parker is finally growing. Before transplant he was very far from being on the growth chart for weight and height. Now, however, he's finally in the 50th percentile for weight, and the 10th percentile for height. 

Before:

After:

Parker was finally able to start daycare, and has improved in his speech by leaps and bounds. Before transplant he was only saying "momma" and "dada", but now he is stringing together multiple words. For instance, today I gave our dog, Pheobe, a bath, and Parker very excitedly said, "Momma, Pheobe splash splash!" 

Looking back at all of the posts, pictures, and blogs from this day last year has dug up all of the emotions as well. We are so blessed to have such a selfless person give us the gift of a new life. We are beyond blessed to have so many friends, family, and community members stand behind us on this journey. Never once did you guys leave our side. We are spending our weekend celebrating the healthy new life our child has, and we hope you take time to do the same.