Anthony Ruben Vega was born with hydrocephalus that somehow never seemed to affect him physically or mentally. He grew up with a love of singing and dancing and often entertained family and friends. Anthony was only 11 when his health changed and he needed to be hospitalized. On April 19, 2009, he passed away and was able to save three people with the organs he donated and help heal many others with his tissue donation. His father, Giraldo Vega, said that "His last performance was his gift of life. He left us with many beautiful memories and for the recipients he left a part of him that will last a lifetime."

Anthony's Story

When Anthony Ruben Vega was born, his parents we knew that he would be very special. Anthony was born with hydrocephalus, a build-up of fluid that causes brain swelling. Despite what the doctors indicated, Anthony did not seem to be affected mentally or physically by this condition.

Anthony grew up with a love of singing and dancing. If he heard music that he liked, he would perform for everyone. Like most young boys, he enjoyed playing basketball, video games, and riding bikes with his brother, but most of all he enjoyed spending time with his family. Anthony had such a positive attitude and was always in the spotlight. When he walked into a room he would light it up with just his smile.

Anthony was only 11 when he needed to be hospitalized. "We were far from prepared for the outcome that was awaiting us," recalled his father, Giraldo Vega. "On April 19, 2009, our son became an angel."

Giraldo admitted that "the only thing I knew about organ donation was the little heart on a driver's license. I never would have imagined I would have to make the decision to donate the organs of my son."

"When the decision was made, I knew it was my son's chance to be in the spotlight again. The thought of parents sitting in the hospital helplessly waiting for an organ donor crossed my mind. If Anthony could save one life, one family, from losing their son or daughter or father, what better way for him to give the performance of a lifetime."

The decision Anthony's parents made not only helped one life, but three through organ donation, and many more through tissue donation.

From performing on stage at concerts to entertaining his family and friends, Anthony was distinguished as a masterful performer. Giraldo affirmed that "His last performance was his gift of life. He left us with many beautiful memories and, for the recipients he left a part of him that will last a lifetime."