September 22, 2021 marked my 13th year post transplant. It’s been an incredible journey and this journey has only been possible because of the superhero who was my donor. In the amazing 13 years since my transplant I’ve danced and celebrated at three of our daughters’ weddings, watched our grandson who was two years old in 2008, become a wonderful young man of 15, and been there for the births of six more incredible grandchildren. Being able to be part of these wonderful life events has been a blessing beyond words. Life’s everyday events and the incredible memories they have given me are truly what transplantation means to me. With every wonderful moment I’ve been able to experience since my transplant, I have always kept my donor and my donor’s family close in my heart. I will never forget all they have given and will spend the rest of my time here, being thankful and trying to give back some of the blessings I have been given. There is no greater gift than the gift of life.
– Glenna Bertsch
