The only word I can use to describe today is "surreal."  We began the day at 6am preparing Sydney for surgery.  We spent the time opening presents & taking pictures.  Sydney was trying on princess jewelery and having a great time.  Right before her surgery they gave her a little bit of sleepy medicine.  By the time the doctors were prepped and ready to go Sydney was very relaxed.  It was one of the most difficult things I've ever had to do…saying good-bye to her in the Operating Room.  However I remind myself over and over that she is saving Riley's life.  

Sydney's bone marrow harvest was about an hour long.  I spent an additional hour with her in the recovery room.  By the time she was back in her room she was eating snacks & playing with toys again.  She was able to be discharged from the hospital by about 2pm.  She did an amazing job!!  We are so proud of her!  

After Sydney was finished I ran back over to CHOC for Riley's transplant.  We had been preparing for this day for months and it was worth every moment.  All of our doctors & nurses entered the room and had a quiet moment for Riley before hanging the bag of marrow.  It was very emotional for everyone including the nurses who got a little teary eyed.  Riley was sound asleep as he received the marrow.  It took about 1/2 hour for the marrow to run through the IV into Riley.  This was a huge milestone for my family.  Riley slept in my arms as he received Sydney's marrow.  It was an incredible moment!

Riley will continue to be hospitalized for another 4-6 weeks while his body begins to produce his own cells.  We still have a long road to recovery ahead of us. However we will all rest a little easier tonight knowing that we are now…post-transplant patients.

Love,

amy