Our prayers have been answered

It is so hard to believe that it has been six months since we last posted. The spring and, most especially, the summer are just a blur. So much has happened as Alison has continued to fight her illness; endless hospitalizations, medical procedures, pain and suffering. As much as we don't like to dwell on the negatives, they are the harsh realities of what Alison has lived with day in a day out. The positives, though have also been many. Stephen has recuperated from surgery and is back at Fordham-we are so very grateful for his return to health. He continues to be there for his sister, being the best big brother. Nine additional family members, friends and strangers came forward to be potential donors. Our gratitude to each and every one of them cannot be expressed in words-they are very special people who we feel honored and blessed to have in our lives. We were also blessed to have hundreds of people support Ali's Angels in our quest to raise funds for the research of Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis. Our thanks too to the many, many people who have remained constant in our lives through their calls, emails, cards and ongoing prayers of hope and strength for Alison and our family.

Well, all of our prayers have finally been answered. We are overjoyed to formally announce that a donor has been found. Alison’s transplant is scheduled for Monday, October 19th. There are no words to express the depth of our thanks to the young man who has come forward to save our daughter’s life. He has requested to remain anonymous, which we, of course, respect. We hope, somehow, though that he is able to know how his unselfish gift will reach far beyond the one person he is so committed to help. He will be giving our family back the joy of our lives, the spark that makes us complete; we could ask for no greater gift. His gift will also enable Alison to fulfill her dream to become a nurse; nurturing, caring and comforting many who will face the kind of sickness and pain that she has. Alison has struggled and suffered so much and to think of her being restored to health and beginning to live her life again, is so incredible. This young man is certainly one Ali’s Angel that will forever remain in our hearts.
With love and gratitude,
Joe, Karen, Jennifer and Stephen