We woke up on the big day, a fresh start for our girl and everything just felt good! The sun was shining through our hospital window, Arlie had woke up in a good mood despite the constant nausea and I felt the peace that came from all the prayers and love that had been sent our way. We had received the news that her donor marrow arrived the afternoon before. One less thing to worry about. 

We tried to stay busy in our tiny hospital room until the transplant would be starting that afternoon. A friend brought a disassembled cake for her to decorate for her "party", we played music and just hung out. Reflecting on the day they told us Arlie would need a bone marrow transplant and actually making it to this day. The feeling was so big. I think about all the families on this cancer floor and think about their big moments and am so grateful we all have each other as a big support group cheering each other on. Understanding each others milestones as BIG, AMAZING moments! 

Finally! 3pm arrived and man did I have a freak out moment. I saw them walking towards our room with the bag of marrow and tears immediately filled my eyes. The amazing stranger didn't back out. He followed through with something that could've scared him. He could've said "I can't do this"! But he showed up like we as humans should do every. single. day. We should be seeking out ways to help each other, big and small. No act of kindness would ever be turned away. If I learn nothing more from this experience, it would be more acts of service to others. Getting off track guys! Back to the big moment. 

I just couldn't take my eyes off the bag of marrow. I couldn't believe that bag of blood was SAVING MY CHILDS LIFE. 

Needless to say, everything went so smooth. Her vitals were perfect the whole 4 hours of the transfusions and she is feeling good this morning. Now we wait for her body to accept this foreign marrow. The first 100 days is the most crucial for Arlie's body to adjust to all the changes we have thrown at it. We will be watching her closely, following strict protocol and watching her little body go through many ups and downs. Pray for minimal side effects, pray her body adjusts quickly and pray we can handle everything and stay strong for her and each other. 

I can't wait for the day I can show Arlie all these moments and for her to fully understand how strong and amazing she is. Mama is so proud of you!