Valerie asked me to share a sweet experience I had yesterday as I picked Audrey up from school. It was the last school day she had before the bone marrow transplant. and when I met her at her classroom, she was carrying a large tote bag full of gifts that the students and teachers had given her, wishing her good luck. Everyone in her class and all the teachers in the school had signed the canvas bag with colorful markers and inside was a large assortment of pens, pencils, markers, and notebooks, along with a little folding desk--the perfect gifts for Audrey who is a wonderful writer. As we made our way down the hall, everyone called out to Audrey, wishing her luck and sending their love. I was so touched by the outpouring of love and support for a sweet big sister who is donating her bone marrow this morning.
Another precious thing was watching Marian tell Audrey about the surgical procedures she was going to be having and encouraging her. Marian was so sad she couldn't go with Audrey and hold her hand. They are the sweetest, most loving sisters.