A letter from a tissue recipient

Hi,

You don’t know me but your loved one made a difference in my life. I am a 44 year old critical care nurse. On August 31st, I had a huge surgery to rebuild my neck from a bad car wreck caused by a woman who did not stop at the red light. My neck discs were removed and I had plates, screws and bone grafts placed. Currently I am fine and back to work, running and a normal life. Your loved one gave me the gift of bone, and I wanted to thank you for it. I hope you don’t mind that I wrote—if you do I am sorry to disturb you.

The bone graft was a perfect fit for my neck the doctor said. This wonderful piece of bone was also very solid as I healed 4 weeks ahead of schedule!! This gift is now a permanent part of me. Please know that I am grateful for this gift. I think about the donor and you—the family left behind—and pray for all of you every morning.

I am a runner, vegetarian, love chocolate, and raise ducks as pets. If you would like to tell me, I would love to hear about your loved one-what were they like?? My heart is sad for your loss-my hope is by writing you will know he or she is not forgotten as I think about your loved one EVERY day. I would never intrude on your privacy-if you choose not to write or e-mail I respect that. I am hoping you will tell me how you are doing also. My hope is that you are doing well, and that God’s perfect peace surrounds you until that glorious day when you can all be together forever.

Thank you –

Alexandra