Donation Comes Full Circle to Donor Family Mom
Several months ago, HLEB received a letter from a donor family mom who has now seen both sides of the donation and recipient experience after she needed a cornea transplant.

Dear Family of Donor,

Not knowing any details about my donor makes this an awkward letter to write, but I must acknowledge this wonderful gift and express my gratitude.

I am a 57 year old wife of 34 years, mother of two daughters and "Nana" to a previous grand-daughter. I'm employed full time in an office. I had my first cataract surgery August 2002. My vision was cloudy immediately due to a hereditary bi-lateral condition called Fuch's Dystrophy. I had to wait to be referred to a specialist. Finally, a wonderful surgeon performed my cornea transplant on December 23, 2003. The stitches may not all be removed for a year and it will still be several more months before the vision is good but the transplant was a success and I'm on my way to having normal vision again.

From the time my surgery was scheduled in November, the donor and family have been in my prayers. I felt even more saddened for your loss right before the holidays.

My youngest daughter was sixteen when she was killed instantly by a drunk driver fourteen years ago. Her fifteen year old best friend died with her. Their corneas were the only organs that could be donated. We were later notified that only one of our daughters corneas could be transplanted, but we never knew any information about the recipient. I speak on Impact Panels for MADD and tell of my daughter and her friends' donation and encourage people to become donors. I will now be able to tell the story of how I, ironically, needed to receive a cornea transplant.

I don't know if your loss was unexpected or how you deal with your grief. I hope it brings some small comfort to know that by your generosity a part of your loved on lives on in someone who is forever grateful to all of you.

Sincerely and God's Blessings to You.