14 Years . . . Day + 5113 . . .

It’s Jack’s 14^th Transplant BiRtHdAy!!!! 14 years since he received the magic cells from the Little Lady from Detroit that would stop the progression of ALD and allow us to not just continue enjoying life with Jack, but appreciate his wisdom and strength. He’s the greatest teacher I’ve ever had and I know he’s the same impact on everyone lucky enough to cross his path.

Here are some sweet words from his family about our boy. PLEASE add a comment about what Jack means to you.

He’s got moves like Jagger. – Dan

He’s a loud, silent human. I love my Booger – Anna

In an age where we’re all on our devices, Jack is living in the moment and loving it. – Aunt April

Yesterday is history, tomorrow is a mystery, and the present is the gift Jack gives us. – Love Aunt Darcy (with help for Eleanor Roosevelt)

We all so remember this day 14 years ago when Jack stayed so calm and so brave as the the Little Last from Detroit came into him and started to do her magic. He smiled back at all the people standing and applauding in his room. What wonderful advantage we all have been able to take from that gift. Jack has been our leader and hero every moment of the way. —  Nonno and Mymom

A quiet guy with a big personality. – Uncle Phil

We both always feel so good around Jack and feel his presence and happy demeanor. He is a gift that makes us all better people. — Love, PopPop and Nanna Sue

A man of few words who says a lot especially with his laughs and smiles. – Aunt Kate

Jack is just a light soul and a whole lot of laughter and smiles. He is also a great dance partner. – Other Mother Orla

Jack is engaged. People think not speaking would isolate him, but it sure doesn’t. – Mymom

Absolutely famntastic! The best friend anyone could ask for. Empathetic, funny, charming. – Other Father Peter

As my grandson and my inspiration as a valiant and brave guy always ready to replace difficulties and tragedy with a laugh. – Nonno

Jack is the best human being ever, my inspiration in life! – Other Mother Lilly

Jack is pure love! The most beautiful soul I have ever met. He means kindness, friendship, strength and sensitivity with a resilient heart. Jack is an example of how to live life with grace and joy no matter the adversities. – Other Mother Monica

Jack is an amazing young man who loves a good laugh more than anyone I know! – Uncle Matt

Once upon a time there was “a Iittle girl from Detroit” who would forever change a little boy by the name of Jack Torrey’s life!  Her gift to Jack has inspired so many and has given Jack the opportunity to be the awesome dude he is – a smile like no other and an awesome sense of humor to boot! – Love Aunt Kim

Jack’s journey shows that happiness and love can win. Jack still has the same attachment he always did. — Uncle Pablo

Our family can’t describe in words what Jacko means to us. He has completed our family. We love him so much. — Other Mother Maria and Family

Time is always a odd when it comes to remembering defining milestones. We will never forget that day in room 505, but it feels like both yesterday and a million years ago. We remember every detail of the anxiety and energy and hope and smell (stem cells smell terrible — who knew?) in the room when the life-saving cells went into Jacks’s body. It’s the day that we saved our son’s life with the help of countless doctors and nurses AND a family that donated precious cells, never knowing that they were going to give the gift of Jack to so many.

Thank you to the mother of the Little Lady from Detroit! Your gift didn’t just save Jack’s life, it changed the lives of many!!

Love, Jess