Sadi'jae Najera
Type of Donation: organs
Age and Location: Age 17 – Bakersfield, CA
Donation Date: 5/13/2021
Sponsor: Honored by JJ's Legacy
SADI'JAE’S STORY
Sadi'jae Najera was born to Diana Villarreal and James Najera on November 3, 2003, in Bakersfield, CA. Her unique personality and compassionate nature were evident early in her relationships with her parents, younger siblings, nephew, and big sister, Alize. Her favorite pastimes included singing and dancing, making TikTok videos and recording other videos of her favorite songs and dances. During her school years, she received many awards: citizenship, perfect attendance, and honor roll. She earned badges and pins from her participation in Girl Scouts. These honors and awards reflected her compassionate nature and willingness to serve others. Sadi'jae dreamed of being a veterinarian. To get a head start on that ambition, she rescued stray animals that would often be brought home without her mom's knowledge. She also dreamed of someday being a mother. She relished being a babysitter and was an amazing godmother to her nephew. Sadi'jae's family was changed forever on May 12, 2021. She was struck by a car and rushed to a hospital, where after 5 hours of surgery, there were no signs of brain activity, and she passed away on May 13, 2021. Soon after, her parents were invited into the JJ's Legacy Comfort Room to discuss Sadi'jae's donor options with OneLegacy representatives. Her compassionate nature guided their decision, and Sadi'jae was able to save five lives. One of her kidney recipients, Raul Gonzales, is a member of their church and now has become an honorary member of her family. He made it possible for Sadi'jae to be honored on the OneLegacy Donate Life Float. Sadi'jae's unique personality and compassionate nature prevail beyond her seventeen years and continue in the lives of those she helped through the gift of life. Her floragraph on the OneLegacy Donate Life Rose Parade float is a fitting tribute and accomplishment.