Time with Madelyn

This weekend we are having the pleasure of spending some time with Gary's little cousin Madelyn. She has been so much fun! Here are some things we did on her first full day here:

Can't wait to see what tomorrow brings (ok after we get some ice cream tonight!!!!) Enjoy Sarah & Dan!

xoxo

Gift of Life

Unfortunately Gary and I have a friend who will be placed on the organ donor list soon because she has a disease that is destroying her liver. She is a wonderful person, mother of two, wife, friend and most importantly a follower of Jesus Christ. Her struggles with her health are a true testament to her faith. She has remained positive through all the difficult times and has turned over control of her life to the Lord. I'm amazed by her faith and at the same time encouraged.

Just recently we were chatting on the phone about her recent medical/testing results from U of M, which was good news since the test was to see if she had bile cancer! The doctors continue to monitor her to determine if she is eligible to be placed on the donor waiting list for a liver. Fortunately and Unfortunately she is just below the level (measured by certain chemicals in the liver) needed to be on the waiting list. In the meantime she is asking that friends and family share information about organ donation and encourage everyone to sign up to become an organ donor. If you are a Michigan resident and have a MI drivers license the process to be a member of the organ donor registry is EASY!! Just follow this  LINK. Along the left side of the page click on Organ Donation and follow the simple instructions. Please don't wait! Sign up NOW. Thanks! And please add the Brandt family to your prayers.

Oh, and here are some facts about organ donation that might interest you:

Organ Transplantation and Donation Facts at a Glance

People of all ages and medical histories should consider themselves potential donors. Your medical condition at the time of death will determine what organs and tissue can be donated.

Organs and tissues that can be donated include: heart, kidneys, lungs, pancreas, liver, intestines, corneas, skin, tendons, bone, and heart valves.

There is no national registry of organ donors. Even if you have indicated your wishes on your drivers' license or a donor card, be sure you have told your family as they will be consulted before donation can take place.

All major religions approve of organ and tissue donation and consider donation the greatest gift.

An open-casket funeral is possible for organ and tissue donors