I saw this today and felt it was important to post. More than just the anniversary of the beginning of a most remarkable journey, this is a story which gave many of us a better appreciation of what faith, family and friends can mean to a life. To a most courageous person, one who by sharing his story has made a difference in my own life, thank you JayB.:thumb: CaringBridge / justinbarbier / Welcome JULY 27, 2009....Two years ago today Justin received his first Bone Marrow Transplant. I remember he and I filled with such determination that he would pull through this! I don't think either one of us expected the complications that sidelined us in Minnesota for sooo long. For those new to our journey, this transplant didn't take. Justin would need to endure yet a second transplant in Dec 2007. Two years ago, we entered a world that forever changed who we both are.
Hey, JayB. I remember that people put up get well posts and such on this site a couple of years ago, but I wasn't very involved on the site at the time and didn't yet feel a part of the community, so I didn't read them. Now that I have come to realize that I have known you personally as my former student at Nicholls, and that I remember you, especially talking to me after class about LSU, I can say now that I am happy to hear what an amazing medical miracle you had to go through and the fact that you still come across as a positive, outgoing person is an inspiration. Sometimes we as human beings are self-absorbed, and I feel I was a bit that way even before I was a part of this community. I saw the threads started but passed on them, seeking LSU news only. Too bad I missed the opportunity then, but I am glad to see your situation has had positive results. Not many of us will ever have to go through what you have, and I hope it is possible that you don't have to go through your ordeal again. Keep us updated, buddy! And see you in chat for the LSU football games. Lee
It's amazing how things can work out for the better. Not only is he doing well and enjoying life now, he is flying high after following his baseball tigers to a world series championship! I'll never forget those months following the online journal. Not only did I learn a lot about Justin and his great family, I also learned a lot about our onlien community here at Tiger Forums. Justin truly brought out the best in everyone. A leader by example indeed.
JayB, it's great to see you here everyday. You're a true testament to perseverence and fortitude, as are your parents and other family members. You know how to fight the good fight.
JayB, I will never forget getting to know a little about you and your family following the caringbridge site. It was such a blessing to see your strength and courage, and your mom's immovable faith. It was truly inspirational. - Deceks, you make it harder and harder for me to hate Auburn. I hold you personally responsible for the fact that...as proven by recent threads...Auburn isn't even in SECOND place in the "Team you hate" category on this board!:lol:
i can honestly say that getting to meet and spend time with justin, his mom, and his sis, were a big part of what made going to omaha so special this year. (yes, being there for the tigers was the real reason, but spending time with them was the icing on the cake.) they are all wonderful people. and getting to spend time with justin and really get to know him was a treat. he is a great young man and i feel fortunate to call him my friend. but damn, he's picky about hot dogs! :hihi:
Following Justin on Caringbridge during some really dark days proved to be really emotional and, at times, very scary. Justin's mom is a hero to me. I could feel her anguish at being away from home and in just wanting her son to recover. JayB, I remember how close you were to death as our Tigers took the field against Ohio State in the BCSNCG. From there to being in Omaha as our baseball Tigers took the prize this year, you've come a long way!
