by Laurie Johansen

Created on: June 23, 2008   Last Updated: June 24, 2008

My 15 year old niece asked me not to long ago if I had a bucket list. As a stared at her with this look of what-are-you-talking-about on my face, I answered; I don't need a bucket list, I have plenty of buckets to use in my house. She couldn't stop laughing long enough to tell me what a she meant by a bucket list. Finally, after catching her breath she told me that a bucket list is a list of things you want to do before you die. She then showed me her bucket list on her myspace page. Ahh...now I get it..things to do before I kick the bucket.

As I was looking over her list, I started thinking of my own list. Of course, her list is much longer then my own because she is only 15 years old and has more time to accomplish those things on her bucket list. My list, at age 43, is shorter and includes things that aren't as selfish as what I read on my niece's bucket list.

There are many things I want to accomplish in my life but one thing I would love to see before I die is a cause and cure for my daughter's disease. Finding the cause and cure for my daughter's disease may not happen in time to help her but I hope I can die knowing that there will be no more children suffering from this childhood liver disease.

My Dad passed away two years ago, and I remember asking him before he died if he had any regrets, he had none but wished he had taken the time to travel more and help others in need. He had dreams of using his love for antique cars to raise money for families that have hit on hard times. He was just about to accomplish that goal just a month before he passed away. For my dad, I would like to carry on his dream of helping others in need. Therefore, I need to add volunteering at the homeless shelter, building a Habitat for Humanity Home, feeding families at the Ronald McDonald House, etc. to my bucket list.

On the top of bucket list is to start a nonprofit organization that financially benefits families dealing with pediatric liver disease. In the 10 years of being affected by liver disease, I have heard many stories of families having difficulty making ends meet due to medical bills. No family should have to decide whether to pay for treatment of a child and their mortgage. There is a plan, I just don't have the knowledge or the resources to implement my plan.

Then there is the goal of finishing my college education. At age 43, this seems to be out-of-reach not only do I have time against me but I have limited financial means. There have been plenty of times in the

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