In May 1996, our youngest child Catríona (Irish spelling for Katrina) was born with a genetic liver disease called Alpha Antitriypsin Deficiency.  This disease caused cirrhosis of her liver. Catríona fought bravely the many symptoms that accompany end-stage liver disease, such as ascites, severe itching, malnutrition, bleeding, vomiting, etc.  A lot of time was spent in the hospital.  At six months old, she received a g-tube and central line and was listed for a transplant. 

In September 1999, Catríona received a new liver.  After a few rocky weeks in ICU involving two scary episodes of bleeding from esophageal varices, Catríona came home to a new life.  Despite a few hiccups along the way, Catríona continues to thrive.

Catríona is very involved with Irish dancing and loves to play with her older siblings.  To make a very long medical story short, she has gone from a very ill child to a well one!  Catríona is our miracle!