Hello.

My name is [first name]. I'm 47 years old, a veterinarian working in industry, and live with three cats and a wonderfully supportive man. You don't know me. That didn't stop you from making an incredible decision that saved my life. I can only imagine how difficult this was for you, and wanted you to know that you have been in my thoughts often during these past months. You have my sympathy, and my condolences on your loss. I wish I had better words for this, to convey the depth of these emotions. Please know that my feelings are heartfelt, and that there hasn't been a day since May that I haven't paused at some point to reflect on my unknown benefactor and his family and friends.

I wanted this chance to thank you and let you know how much I appreciate this wonderful gift you've given me. In the days before I received the new liver I was extremely debilitated from my disease. I was on disability. I had no energy, and had to ask for assistance with even the easiest of tasks, like getting the lids off of jars. I needed a handicapped-parking placard, and even then I was often worn out from just walking from the car to the building. I couldn't concentrate well enough to read a book or newspaper. And then I got the telephone call that gave my life back to me.

Three and a half months after the transplant I returned to work. I once again park my car at the back of parking lot and walk the full length of the lot to the building. I'm reading books again, and taking care of daily chores again. Virtually everything I lost has been given back to me. Even the smallest things have taken on new meaning; when I take the lid off of a jar now, I pause to think of the unknown donor and his family that have made this possible.

"Thank-you" seems too weak a phrase, but until I can find something better, I have to let it make-do. Thank-you, from the depths of my soul.

[first name]