On the Porch
Onisha Ellis
October 15, 2012, I was blessed to receive a new cornea. Unlike most transplant recipients who wait on “the call”. I knew three weeks in advance and with this knowledge came the realization that a family was going to suffer the heartbreaking lose of a loved one. My heart was devastated for them. I shared my grief with my wise friend DiVoran and we prayed for my donor and their family. During the three-week wait I continued to pray for peace and the comfort of God’s love for the family.
Even though donors and recipients are anonymous, there is a process to write a letter to your donor family. I am sharing my letter with you to honor the courage and selflessness of all donor families.
Dear family,
On October 15, 2012 I received a new cornea with great joy thanks to your incredible kindness. Please know I do not accept your gift without realizing you suffered heartbreaking loss. I knew three weeks in advance my transplant date and I began to pray God’s comfort and peace for you and will continue to do so. This was my third transplant. My first was in 2005 and for no specific reason it failed. I know this may sound strange but your loved one’s gift just feels strong and is healing very quickly. Thank you with my whole heart. Without you and my other donor I would not see and I thank God for you.
This link has FAQ regarding cornea transplants.
http://www.spacecoastlivinghealth.com/?p=2161
Old Things R New 
Onisha, you wrote a beautiful letter to the donor family. I would think it would be so comforting to them to know that a truly wonderful, thankful lady received their precious gift.
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Thank you , Linda.I thought of them today, their first Thanksgiving without their loved one.
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That was such a beautiful, heartfelt letter, I hardly know what to say. They surely did suffer as any family would upon losing a loved one, yet because you asked I’m sure that your prayers for the family were answered and that the Lord is making a buffer of Himself between them and the storm.
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Thank you Divoran, Judy and Gabby for your sweet words.
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Alta, my dearest friend, thank you for being so open with your wonderful heartfelt letter to your donor! I will also lift your donor family up in prayer. I am so happy that you are doing so well with this cornea, it’s a joy to see you smile when you talk about your healing process. Love ya!
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What an absolutely beautiful letter! I shall keep it in my memories. Judy
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