You live

Poem by the mother of a child with a liver transplant

You live

It's as if the ground is shaking under my feet

And I wonder what will happen next

The fear, it has me firmly in its grip

The panic is rising, the clock is ticking,

Time is running out, will you survive?

Will you survive the week?

You're listed, but it's getting tight

With every day the hope of recovery diminishes.

I see you suffering, I see you getting tired

How you fight and yet lose heart,

The laughter flees from your eyes

The strength fades, see how you become calmer,

High urgent listed, but something must happen quickly.

If no organ fits, I will lose you

I would have liked to spend more time with you

But I'll be tested to see if my liver fits

It's so hard to be strong for you,

Not to show you my despair

But you have to fight and it will be easier

If we stand firmly by your side

The day we've been dreading,

it's here now, it's hard to bear

I'm standing by your little bed

You can't see me because you're already asleep

I don't know if you'll wake up again

Whether you'll make it through the transplant

I love you and I'm so glad that you exist. You have touched my heart deeply and filled every day so much; with your laughter, your wonderful nature. You are unique, magical. You are so lovable and strong. Yes, you are a precious gift

I say goodbye to you once again

Pray that it's not forever

A kiss goodbye, then I have to go

Only one wish remains, that we see each other again

You are alive - you are alive

Your life, yes, you are worth so much

And you are as if nothing had happened

Your radiance fills the room

You cuddle up in my arms

And when I look at you like this

Gratitude fills me - you live

I wish you that only good things lie ahead of you

You never lose your smile

The world shines in sunlight

And paints rainbows for you

You forget time in play

And love life carefree

Written by a mother who donated part of her liver to her then 7-month-old child.