Adrian told his mother he wanted to be an organ donor in November of 2013. Two months later, he developed flu like symptoms and tragically passed away from meningitis at 22 years old. Adrian was able to donate his lungs, liver and kidneys to three people. Through his decision, Adrian has inspired his family and friends to become registered organ donors. His parents have met and maintain a close relationship with his double lung recipient. Thoughtful, outgoing, passionate, charismatic and with an enthusiasm for life that shined through everything he did, he became the youngest in his company to achieve top seller at 20 years old. He had aspirations to pursue a career in chemical engineering and was an avid gardener who loved to cook with home grown vegetables. Adrian will be remembered for his contagious smile, and will continue to smile knowing that he was able to help others.

Alyssa Jamie Galvan had charisma, courage, and laughter that filled her family’s days with happiness that will always be cherished. Either by raising money through cooking meals for her local football booster club or becoming an avid blood donor, Alyssa was devoted to selflessly helping others. She maintained a 4.0 GPA in high school and attended California State University Fullerton on a scholarship in the summer of 2013. Her aunt, OneLegacy Ambassador Veronica Cosme (float rider), and 4 others were saved by the direct donation of her organs. She believed, “…I can impact the lives of people I may or may never get the chance to meet. Donating life is something I can and want to do for the rest of my life.”

Andrew Rivera was a smart, fun-loving person who loved being with his family, laughing, and goofing around. He loved cartoons, music, and video games. Andrew graduated from high school as an honor student on the Dean’s List. He attended Bronx Community College and studied Computer Technology. Andrew held a position with the Department of Health and Hygiene which he enjoyed very much. On July 8, 2015, Andrew passed from a massive stroke at the North Shore University Hospital; he was 29. He always wanted to be a superhero and now he is. He continues to live on in others. Ten months after Andrew’s passing the Rivera family had the pleasure of meeting the three miracles who received Andrew’s gifts of life.

Caitlyn, the youngest of 3, was a vibrant toddler with golden-blonde, popcorn hair whose smile was warmly felt by all those she met. Caitlyn was only 18 months old when she was taken from this earth. Greatly missed by family and friends, there is now an annual “Cupcakes with Caitlyn” held every October, her birth month, to celebrate and remember this little angel. Every year, family and friends are encouraged to spread the word, as much as possible, of this beautiful little girl and her zest for life. Caitlyn donated her kidney, liver and heart. Her family has met one recipient and hopes to meet the other two someday, but know they are doing well with Caitlyn’s blessing.

Cam’ron Matthews was a role model, a respectful, even-keeled, and a fine young man. Cam’ron was an outgoing and friendly junior at Alto High School in Texas and a back-up quarterback on the undefeated Yellowjacket football team. He lived in Alto all his life and was a member of the Alto Church of Christ. In October 2015, Cam’ron had just finished a play during a Friday night football game when he said he was feeling dizzy. He fell to the ground on the sidelines. Cam’ron was airlifted from the football field to East Texas Medical Center in Tyler, Texas, and passed away a day later. Amidst this great tragedy, his parents made the decision to donate their son's organs. Through organ donation, Cam saved six lives.

Chase Kai Horimoto deeply cared for his family and friends. Chase was born on April 10th, 1994, in Honolulu, Hawaii. He passed on May 7th, 2015 at 21 years old. Chase found his passion in Hawaiian studies and made fish hooks, Hawaiian statues, etc. He eventually wanted to teach the Hawaiian culture to others. Chase was a very caring and loving person. Any time someone needed help, Chase was there. So in his passing, his family knew it was the right decision to help those needed it. Chase would be so proud. He is looking down with his awesome smile at all of them.

Courtney Lynne was a very fun-loving and caring young lady. Courtney was studying to be a special education teacher before passing away on September 15, 2008 from cardiac arrest. Even at a young age, she had a special gift of communicating and teaching children with special needs. Courtney’s generous gift of life answered the prayers of seven families and saved seven lives. The Dayback family will forever miss her contagious smile and laughter. Courtney’s presence continues to be felt with her generous gift of life.

Daniel “Danny” George Mateik III was a kind soul and a giver. He was a self-taught guitar and bass player, awesome skateboarder and an international black belt in Tae Kwon Do. Danny even once sailed a Polynesian voyaging catamaran for his final exam at the Ocean Learning Academy in Hawai’i. At the age of 24, God decided to take him to heaven. He was able to save 4 lives. Nobody in the family could believe what had happened, but Donate Life was there to explain the process. He was able to donate his heart, liver, and both kidneys. Danny’s family now gives back by volunteering to decorate the Donate Life Rose Parade Float on December 26^th every year to celebrate his birthday. As Danny surfs the waves of heaven, his heart will continue to beat on this earth.

Daniel was a very gracious and considerate person.  Always willing to help a loved one or friend, he was excited and so proud to become an organ donor when he signed his drivers’ license at 21 years old. Daniel shared his wishes with his family. Daniel passed away four years later at the age of 25. His family is so proud of Daniel’s choice. Daniel was able to touch numerous lives with his “gift of donation.” Daniel lives forever in their hearts.

Daniel Nathan Salazar had a love of photography, drawing, computer animation, and gaming. He and his cousins would collaborate on computer animated characters and many game modifications. Daniel self-published many songs under the name D2K204 and was constantly creating new music to share with everyone. Daniel’s family was contacted by OneLegacy after his untimely passing and has helped many people through the gift of life. His family will see him with each sunrise, in all the stars, and in each moonlit night. His warmth and hugs and gentle smile will be missed.

David was 43 in 2005 when he was lost suddenly to a massive stroke. He was a Long Beach native who believed in family and community. He left behind a wife, an 18-year-old daughter, a 3-day old son, a brother, sister, niece, and nephew. He was a selfless father. You could hear his laugh from miles away and made everyone feel important. He would be the man who bought extra food at the store to take outside to the homeless, and the man who coached boys’ football even though he didn’t have a son at the time. It was his wish in life to donate upon his death and OneLegacy helped fulfill that wish for David when the time came. David donated his liver, tissue, and corneas here in the US and in Korea.  

Davis Paul Colley was an amazing individual who always encouraged people around him. As an accomplished honor student and varsity wrestler, Davis was the first to speak up if someone was in need. His commitment to wrestling went beyond just the team, but also helping younger wrestlers. He never liked to see anyone hurting and was the first to speak up if he saw an injustice. Charismatic and sociable, Davis had an unforgettable presence that made people laugh. He would be proud to know that his choice to be a donor would help 133 tissue recipients in 13 different states.

Deanna Carr was never afraid of a challenge. Her loyalty and commitment to the relationships in her life were unprecedented and she lived every moment to the fullest. She was not afraid to speak her mind. In March 1992, Deanna joined the Fire Service and was a beloved member of the Bellevue Fire Department for 22 years. Deanna Carr was an outstanding firefighter and EMT who loved her career and had the admiration and respect of her coworkers. Just as she had dedicated her life and career to helping others, Deanna saved the lives of four individuals through the donation of her liver, lungs, and both kidneys.

Dustin Kitts will be remembered for his love of family, friends, and God. School had just let out for the summer, the Kitts family was packing for a lake getaway. During that time, Dustin’s car veered into oncoming traffic about 5 miles from home. He was taken by helicopter to the hospital where he died 3 days later. Since that day, the family has cherished 17 years of memories of him. Dustin played on the traveling hockey team his brother Drew coached. They all miss his crooked grin, quirky sense of humor, his love of Grateful Dead, snowboarding, and hockey. Part of Dustin continues to live on through organ donation.

Dyllan was a devoted son, brother, uncle, grandson, and friend.  He was a hardworking, kindhearted young man, who lived every day to the fullest. Dyllan had just completed his first year at the University of Iowa, majoring in Pre-Medicine, when on June 30, 2011, where he was involved in a car accident that left him with major head trauma. Dyllan was able to save the lives of four people through organ donation – two of which were directed donations to friends of his family.  The DCL Foundation was established following his passing to help raise awareness for organ and tissue donation and brain injury awareness. Through his amazing gifts, Dyllan continues to live, love, and give every day, and his beautiful life and spirit will never be forgotten.

Eric always had a strong passion for life, his family, culture and technology. He was an inspiration to all who were in his presence. Eric was a proud graduate of the University of Texas at El Paso and eventually worked as an IT specialist at Texas Tech. One of his greatest achievements was the day he married his best friend, Mandy Perez. The gleam in his eyes and his warm smile reflected the special feelings Eric held for the love of his life. Eric loved to encourage people to push forward in life and he gave of himself selflessly. On August 30, 2015, he carried out one last selfless act through organ donation; giving five people he would never meet the gift of life. He is remembered through his organization AO’s Gift of Life.

Ernie Jr.'s artist’s eye brought beauty wherever he went. His incredible talent for visualizing the finished product and focus on the details sparked an amazing landscaping career. Hiking, landscaping, and scuba diving brought him joy. Ernie Jr. was with his true love, Megan, for 14 years. When Ernie Jr. lost his life in tragic automobile accident, his family learned of his decision to be a donor that very evening. As a result of Ernie Jr.’s generous decision to donate, the lives of two women in North Carolina have received the gift of sight. Ernie Jr.’s family reached out to the recipients and wrote “knowledge that he has given two people the gift of sight, and has touched your lives, brings us comfort.”

Evan Cotillier was sweet and compassionate. Helping others brought Evan joy. Born in Gary, Indiana, he moved to Arkansas in 2006. No matter where he lived, it made no difference in how many people he inspired. He was always asking someone if they were hungry so he could show off his grilled cheese-making skills, but mostly he wanted to just make someone feel loved. One of those friends shared with his family how Evan changed her life and wrote a beautiful poem in his memory. With Evan's donation, his legacy of giving was honored with exactly with what Evan would have chosen.

For 29 years, Gary spent his life saving others working as a paramedic and later as an EMS coordinator and instructor. Gary is remembered as a loving husband, father, stepfather, uncle, brother, friend, and “Boppa.” He had the most wonderful sense of humor. He could joke about anything in a way that would lighten the mood and he always knew what to say to put everyone at ease. Gary was kind, wise, and had a great outlook on life—sometimes it seemed as if he knew something about life others couldn’t grasp. He loved spending time in northern Michigan, traveling with his wife, Laurie, playing cards, cooking for his family, fishing with friends, and boating on Lake Erie. Gary passed away suddenly at the age of 61. Though suffering from this devastating loss, his family was comforted knowing that even in death, he was still able to save a life because of his organ donation.

Glenn was a donor and has helped over 127 people after suffering from a massive brain hemorrhage on March 23, 2013. Glenn loved family; his son was his pride and joy. Friends were also family to him and he stayed in close contact with friends from kindergarten. Glenn was a loved man. This year’s Donate Life Float is fitting because Glenn was also an athlete. With sports, Glenn was on the team and most usually the captain, the quarterback, the pitcher, the star. He studied film at the University of Miami which was the equivalent of an academy award for students in the late 1970s. Since Glenn’s passing, his wife has been inspired to become an Ambassador with OneLegacy, where she now speaks to get the word out about the importance of being a donor, a hero.

Heather Denise Reed-Flynn will be forever remembered for her caring nature and love for others. Heather cherished her role as daughter, wife, and mother. She was a graduate of Kansas State University in Manhattan, KS. In her first years after college, Heather spent time as an editor for a few locally published magazines, but found her true calling as a stay-at-home mother with the birth of her daughter, Hannah. Heather was known for being a steward for those around her, as well as for her environment.  She was a registered organ donor and was able to fulfill her last wish to save others after a sudden.

Isak had a brilliant mind, and knew how to use it wisely. Isak was genuine. He made people feel a sense of love and comfort that is hard to come by. Isak was loyal. He was not quick to let people in, but once you were in, you were in for life. Isak was musical. Music, and the guitar in particular was the key to Isak’s soul. After spending 20 minutes on YouTube he could play a Jimi Hendrix tune like a pro, and never failed to tell if you were “tone deaf.” Through his family's journey with the New Jersey Sharing Network, there is a new adjective describing Isak: heroic. His kidneys, liver and his corneas have been donated to recipients in need. He is always in his friend’s and family’s hearts.

Ishmiel Ward’s family remembers him as a gentle giant with big, bright eyes and a most beautiful smile. His sister describes him as sweet, loving, and always there when she needed him. Despite a rough childhood, Ish did well in school, was involved in church, and aspired to join the military. Tragically, in June 2011, Ish’s life was cut short. When approached about organ, eye and tissue donation, Ish’s family thought of his generous spirit and big heart and knew he would say yes. His organs saved three lives, including his great aunt’s in a directed donation, and his tissue healed countless others. Today, Ish’s family keeps his memory alive by sharing his story and being involved in the Donate Life Community.

Jacob McCollum was a typically active teenage boy who loved playing football, riding his dirt bike, and spending time with family and friends. Jacob was a boy who kept everybody laughing and could talk about anything from NASCAR to the NFL. He was a linebacker and wide receiver on the football team at Fairforest Middle School in Spartanburg, South Carolina. He also trained under the Warrior 101 program by the Spartanburg County Sherriff’s Office where he set an example for other boys. Even in death, Jacob was a Warrior when he became a donor to so many others. His heart went to a 15-year-old boy; his lungs saved a 52-year-old man; his kidneys went to 48- and 58-year-old men; and his liver saved the life of a 61-year-old woman.

Jared was known as a true cowboy with a big heart and he was loved by everyone who knew him. Jared’s favorite past time was horseback riding on his horse, Amarillo. He also loved rodeos, fishing with his father and brother, and digging up “treasures” in the back pasture. Little did his family know that at the age of 11, this cowboy would inspire the community and show true love to individuals he would never meet. The day that forever changed his family’s lives was his passing on July 5, 2013. Jared’s parents made the selfless decision to say yes to organ donation, giving four people the gift of life by donating his heart, lungs and both kidneys. Jared is remembered each year by the Jared Macias Memorial Bronc ride, with the proceeds going to local charities.

Jared Stanley Gates had a heart of gold with a great love for his family and friends. His family, therefore, named their team “Heart of Gold” for the annual Donate Life Run/Walk. Jared was the kind of person, who when he hugged you, he wanted to make sure you knew you were hugged. He had a great love of music, pottery, painting, and all types of eclectic art. He also played the bass guitar. Jared was a licensed blood donor in life and made the decision to be a registered donor when he got his driver’s license. At the time of his passing, he was able to improve lives with tissue and bone donation.

Jasmine Marie Jackson always had a smile in her eyes and a dry sense of humor that could make everyone around her laugh. She could lift spirits, motivate and make all who knew her feel special. Jasmine’s compassion for people was apparent from a very young age. As a teenager she volunteered at a camp for underprivileged children. Once an adult she became a counselor at Via West for mentally and physically challenged teenagers and young adults. Jasmine’s compassion for helping others led her toward her goal of becoming a psychologist. Her dream was cut short at the age of 20. However, her legacy continues with her wish of being a donor. Since April of 2013, she has already helped over 30 people with her gift of tissue donation.

Jasmine “Nicole” Moore was a natural leader among her peers. Time and time again, she helped those in need in her Logan County, West Virginia community. A caregiver at heart, she had hoped to one day become a nurse. Jasmine loved a challenge, and could fill any room with her smile and confidence. She treasured her grandparents, her baby sister, Leah, and animals—especially her misbehaved beagle and three cats. In September 2012, Nicole was engaged to be married and only 26 years old when, tragically, her life was cut short in a car accident. Nicole’s family did not know that Nicole had made the choice to be a donor until she died. Her enduring spirit and sense of caring is alive today because she made the decision to become an organ, tissue, and cornea donor.

Jasper Yazzie loved his large, close-knit family and adored his three daughters. One of his joys was taking his girls fishing and camping on the lands of his ancestors. Jasper learned about organ donation at the MVD when his wife explained how one person could save another’s life. He felt it was important to help others in need. On a fateful day in September of 2014, Jasper was struck by a car and his family gathered by his side to say goodbye. His decision to be a registered donor saved lives including Jasper’s uncle through the gift of organ donation. Jasper Yazzie’s heroic decision to be a donor continues the Circle of Life.

Jasun decided at a young age to be an organ donor. Jasun Ty Hansen was born on September 4, 1981, to Rich and Donna Hansen in Fountain Valley, California. Growing up, he was the first grandchild in the family, so he was very well taken care of. Jason loved to play hockey, listen to music, and hang out with his friends. He suddenly passed in 2001, and when asked about organ donation, his parents already knew that’s what he wanted. He saved 3 lives with his donation. To his family’s delight, one of Jasun’s recipients, Erika, reached out and wrote a letter after receiving his kidney. The Hansen family now participates in the Donate Life Run/Walk in Fullerton to honor and remember Jasun and inspire the community to Donate Life.

Jenimarie left this world a hero knowing she gave even though she did not receive. Jenimarie fought hard after being diagnosed with Interstitial Lung Disease and was listed for a double lung transplant in 2012. Several promises were made with her mother during Jenimarie’s journey to transplant, one being that “Promise me, Mom, if I don’t make it, you will donate from me so that others may live.” She chose to be a donor before her passing. Jenimarie kept all her promises, as has her mother. Through Donate Life and OneLegacy, her mother continues to fight, but now fighting for others with Jenimarie’s hope that one day, no one would have to wait.

Wise beyond his years, Jerrell touched so many people in his 16 short years of life. In this day and age, he would be considered the kid who protected children who are victims of bullying. He was honor student and a member of the National Honor Society. Also, he was an amazing athlete—he excelled in football, baseball and basketball. He always won over his teachers, coaches and made many friends from all different backgrounds and cultures. He loved to attend church services. With much care and compassion, his family went through the process for Jerrell to be an organ donor after his passing. He was a special gift from GOD and in turn gave back to several individuals through the donation of both kidneys, liver, heart, and pancreas.

John Patrick O’Laughlin was passionate about life. During nearly 34 years of active duty in the Navy and then the reserves, John saw the world stationed aboard ships including the USS Enterprise, Ranger and Forrestral. His numerous awards included the Navy Humanitarian Service Medal and recognition for tours of duty in Desert Storm and liberating Kuwait. He loved dancing competitive country western, and just having fun with family. John O’Laughlin’s family also knows this long-time mariner would have loved sailing on the Donate Life Rose Parade float catamarans dedicated to teammates. He had always said, “when I go, donate my organs to those who need them. When I am gone I won’t need them and someone else will.”

John Richard Taylor’s unassuming demeanor belied an intrepid spirit that only a lifetime of adventures could portray. Before choosing to make America his permanent home in 1970, John was born in Nottingham, England and spent his early adulthood proudly serving in the British Military. As a geophysicist for a large oil company, John traveled the world to provide for his family, protect communities, wildlife, and the environment from any adverse impact made by the search for oil. After passing away in 2015 from complications, his family is so proud that he has been able to impact 53 lives through his last selfless act. John loved his family, and his life!

Joshua David Braswell had a generous spirit and warm smile that brought out the best in everyone. Josh loved football and played from the ages of 7 to 18. His enthusiasm and passion on the football field extended to helping others in the medical field. As a decorated nursing graduate, while saving lives as an EMT at the Mobile Infirmary Hospital, Josh provided light in the darkest of places. His generosity continued as an organ donor, saving 5 more lives after his fatal automotive accident in June 2003. Joshua’s family was able to meet his organ recipients and hear Josh’s heart beat again.

Joshua David Schwabenbauer accomplished and experienced more than many people do in their entire lives. Whether he was skydiving, or scuba diving, or running marathons, he always made sure to make the most of it. Joshua was born and raised in Lauderhill Florida, where he started his career with the city as a firefighter & paramedic. He worked for the fire department for five years before his passing. On September 7, 2012, four people received a second chance at life because of his gifts. Currently, over 200 people have been helped because of his tissue and bone donation. When the Schwabenbauer family meets a recipient, it makes them realize what Joshua and other donors have done, not only for the recipients, but their families as well.

Kaleb “KBOB” was definitely one of a kind! His heart was huge and he would do anything for anyone. He was a very hard worker; even in high school he held a full time job at a factory while still making the honor roll, and held passion for the FFA in his high school years. Kaleb took the good with the bad, but always with a smile. Those around him never once heard him say a negative thing about anyone. They know that many people benefited from Kaleb’s selfless decision to donate, and his final gift continues to impact lives.

Katie Lynn Tonks was full of life. In spite of enduring grand mal seizures her entire life, she loved and enjoyed giving to others and was working towards her education, hoping to meet a companion and anticipated having a family. Katie’s last selfless act was to give her organs so others could live. Although her body is gone, her spirit continues to live on. Our eyes are the windows to our souls. To look into the eyes of Katie’s organ recipients is to see life and happiness; a legacy to a young lady who had much to give.

Kaylee defined true friendship as always volunteering to help others at the drop of a hat. Kaylee gave to others no matter who they were and expected nothing in return. On February 6^th, 2011, Kaylee had a brain aneurysm in her sleep at age 24. In keeping with her generous spirit, Kaylee became an organ, eye, and tissue donor; Kaylee had shared with her family just 37 days earlier, on New Year’s Eve, that she wished to be a donor should anything ever happen to her. Ultimately, donation was her greatest and final gift- Kaylee gave life to three people through the gift of her kidneys and liver; gave sight to two through cornea donation; and has restored many others through her gift of tissues and heart valves.

Kristin was an active, happy child who excelled academically. Behind her thick glasses, Kristin had a keen sensitivity to the needs of others and a desire to extend kindness and generosity to everyone she knew. She sang in numerous choirs, attended Interlochen International Music Camp for several summers and performed in school productions with a flair for comedy. Outside of the classroom, Kristin was active in the Orlando community, traveled, and valued her time with her family and friends; she was positive, gracious, giving and was filled with love and compassion for everyone. Kristin was able to donate her corneas, lungs, kidneys, heart, and liver to those in need. The most amazing gift of all is that the very eyes that failed Kristin were the eyes that gave sight to two recipients.

Sergeant Leevon Ritter was a friend to everyone he touched and his smile could light up the darkest of moments. Sgt. Ritter was a dedicated soldier who tirelessly fought for the freedom of others. He was a 2006 graduate of Pleasant Valley High School in Bettendorf, Iowa where he was a member of the wrestling and baseball teams. Directly after graduation, Leevon enlisted in the United States Army and entered active duty service as a M1A2 armor crewman. On May 31, Leevon was buried with military honors at the National Cemetery at the Rock Island Arsenal in Illinois. He is remembered through the Sgt. Leevon Ritter Support Your Troops Resale Store, operated by Operation Phantom Support in Killeen, Texas. He was able to give three others the gift of life and demonstrate the kindness he was known for.

On a family vacation in the beautiful mountains of Panguitch Lake, Utah, the Runyan family lost their son, Luc Robert Runyan, in a tragic ATV accident. During the darkest hours of his devastated family’s life, the decision was made to use their tragedy to help others improve and save their lives. Luc’s corneas allowed a 24-year-old blind man to see, and skin and bone grafts helped numerous others. Luc was a special young man that touched many lives, and he was passionate about hockey, music and hanging out with friends and family. Luc is sorely missed by his loved ones, but they find peace in their hearts knowing that a part of him lives on and his donations have improved the lives of others.

Manuel was born in Bellflower, California on November 26, 1989 and was raised in Compton, California. He attended Dominguez High School. He played soccer as a young child and grew into a skilled soccer player winning many tournaments. Manuel was a good student and a respectful, kind young man. He loved art and was finding ways to learn to improve his art skills through classes in school. His mother, Martha, shares that he was just beginning to learn how to express himself through his art work. Manuel was able to donate his heart, liver and kidneys to help 4 people. “It is amazing to see how Manuel’s legacy lives on in others especially this young lady,” Manuel's liver recipient states.

Martin Reyes was a beloved husband, father, son, brother, uncle and friend. He raised a family in Anaheim, CA, and worked as a freezer packer for an ice cream cake company. He enjoyed drawing pictures and painting pottery. He was a hard working individual and always had jokes. Martin, along with his wife, worked very hard to make sure their kids had what they needed. On February 21, 2010, Martin was hospitalized due to a severe brain hemorrhage. His family knew that if he was asked if he could help others, he would most definitely say yes. A couple days later, Martin was taken off of life support where one of his adventures ended but he started a new one and his organs were donated. Martin is remembered as a great person with an amazing sense of humor.

Always there to help everyone with a smile that could light up a room, Mary Pope was a loyal person who was loved by all who were blessed to have known her. Family was everything to Mary. She loved the weekend trips with the family, sporting events, concerts, wine nights, and coaching her son’s soccer team. After Mary’s tragic passing, she was able to donate which helped three separate families. A woman in pain with spinal degenerative disc disease, receiving a spinal graft with Mary’s tissue, wrote that “it literally changed my life!” Her family continues to celebrate her legacy by participating in the Donate Life Run Walk every year while CPR classes in her community are given in Mary’s honor.

The Brennan family’s beautiful Ourania was born on June 17, 2013. An ultrasound revealed the devastating news that their precious baby would likely live for only moments after her birth due to the fatal birth defect anencephaly.  She gifted a lifetime of priceless memories. After spending her life in her loving family’s embrace, Ourania passed away peacefully in their arms. Her eldest sister Calliope especially cherishes the time she spent feeding her and the family will never forget the sweet little kisses that Ourania gave.  They decided that organ and tissue donation would be the best way to honor Ourania while helping others. The Ourania Brennan Scholarship at SUNY Broome is a testament to Ourania’s impact on the world.

Philip John “P.J.” Wolf was a blond-haired, blue-eyed, handsome 8½ year old in search of a basketball game. More than 25 years ago, he jumped on his bike and set off into the neighborhood to recruit players for a neighborhood basketball game. His parents saw him next in the back of an EMS. Months prior, he had asked his mom if he could donate his kidney, stating, “I just need one, Mom.” From this conversation, in their darkest of moments, P.J.’s parents did not question their decision, but rather they took comfort in knowing that if they couldn’t save their child, at least they were able to save someone else’s.

When Reat Griffin Lloyd Underwood was a precocious two-year-old, he could recite Eric Carle books. Even then, he loved to sing and perform. His theatre career began at the age four. Reat auditioned for and received roles in more than 10 stage productions during his lifetime. As a high school freshman, he was accepted to the Kansas City Starlight Theatre Program, “Starlight Stars.” He also offered his time as a volunteer in the United Methodist Church of the Resurrection KIDS-COR program, especially in the baby/toddler room. On his way to an audition for KC SuperStar at the Jewish Community Center, Reat and his grandfather were tragically ambushed as victims of a hate crime. Although Reat lost his life in the ambulance, he was still able to donate the gift of life to others and inspire the formation of SevenDays to help heal through love.

Ricardo Debonair “Buck” Brown lived and loved unconditionally. He visited the sick, befriended the elderly, and inspired the young and old. As he grew older, he became fascinated with technology. He could repair almost anything and set out to conquer all his fears. Buck made the decision to give back all that God had given him. Because of his choice to be a donor, lives were saved and changed, inspiring others to love life and live to the fullest every day.

Russell brought an immense joy to those around him. He was admirable, outstanding, determined, and stubborn from the day he was born—qualities he carried with him through life. After graduation he moved to Las Vegas to pursue a career in theater. He performed numerous plays at the Onyx Theater and Planet Hollywood, finding his calling in theater. Russell’s other great loves were animals, reading, and movies. He also volunteered his time to read to students who also had a love for the arts at an after-school program.  He was the most generous, loving, and genuine person. The world lost an amazing soul. He was loved by many and made a huge impact during his short life.

When he was in the first grade, Sebastian Amezcua of Fresno, California told his father that he had a super power―he had “the ability to make friends.” For those who knew Sebastian, that assertion made total sense. He had an infectious smile and was very kind to those around him. His true passion was playing baseball. After his life was cut short at the age of nine, he saved the lives of three people through organ donation. Sebastian’s father German, mother Jessi, and brother Emmanuel (Manu) are Donate Life Ambassadors with Donate Network West to keep his memory alive. Now, his story can touch the hearts of millions of people around the world.

Stacy Hadley cared for many in her five years of service as an Emergency Medical Technician for the Trauma Center in the emergency room. Committed to the public service field, Stacy was studying to become a police officer and later dreamed of becoming a detective. She loved being around friends and family, and loved her nephew like he was her own. Stacy enjoyed being outdoors, going to the lake to boat, ski, and wakeboard. Like many young women, she enjoyed relaxing and spending time with her family by the pool. She was the first to lend a helping hand or give a hug of comfort. Stacy cared deeply about her friends and also those she hadn’t met, which is why her family was not surprised when they learned she was registered as an organ, eye and tissue donor on her license. Her family is comforted by the fact that those who received her organs are able to enjoy life like Stacy did.

Tom unexpectedly passed away from pulmonary embolisms. His wife, Kathi, describes losing Tom hours after their children and friends arrived back from their distant homes and just 11 days short of their 26^th wedding anniversary, as one of the worst times of her life. After choosing to retire, he became a substitute teacher and was awarded “Substitute Teacher of the Year” by one of his favorite schools. Tom was known as a strong, intelligent, fun loving, caring and giving family man. "Tom's wish was to give of himself, even after this life," Kathi said, and he has restored the lives of many through tissue donation and has given sight to two recipients.

Throughout her 41 years of life, Tracy lived to help and care for others. Tracy Driscoll was a loving mother of three, a dedicated friend, an aspiring nurse, and an overall great person. Tracy endured a lot in her life but was always an upbeat person with a happy-go-lucky spirit that never wavered. Before her passing in January 2013, she had previously discussed her decision to become an organ and tissue donor with her children. Even in death, Tracy continued to help others through her gift of life that saved three organ recipients. Her family takes comfort in their loss knowing that her legacy continues to live on in the lives of others. Tracy’s family has formed a close bond with Kirby Cochran, who received his lifesaving liver transplant because of her gift.

Trenton was a very trustworthy, big hearted, fun to be around kind of person. His sarcastic charm made you laugh and feel special. He had the biggest, most beautiful blue eyes. Trenton was very responsible, hard-working, and very successful in his short life. Trenton had decided years before to be an organ donor and probably never had to think twice about it. After Trenton passed while they were preparing for organ transplant, his family had a day to hold him and say good bye. Trenton’s heart, liver, and both kidneys were donated. He saved the lives of three people. He positively influenced people and in death he has continued to do the same.

In June 2014, the Zapotocky’s had an ultrasound appointment. Whitney and Adam were informed that the ultrasound showed that their baby was not developing kidneys. Without kidneys, there is no amniotic fluid, and without amniotic fluid, the lungs would not fully develop. It was a fatal diagnosis. The condition is called renal agenesis, better known as Potter Syndrome. Tyler Ray Zapotocky was born Nov. 5, 2014. He lived for 32 minutes. 2.4 billion liver cells were saved and will be injected into the liver of a sick child to help that child survive until a liver transplant can be performed. The Zapotockys continue to honor Tyler’s legacy by volunteering their time with Southwest Transplant Alliance whenever they can.

Jerry Rowlett was a kind, caring, and God-loving man who could always be found outdoors. He served in the United States Army during the Vietnam war. He had a heart of gold and a smile you could see a mile away. Jerry loved his family and often took the grandkids fishing. On May 23, 2007, as he was driving home after having lunch with his best friend, Linda, he had a massive heart attack. Shortly after, his children decided that he would become a donor. This is what he wanted and to this day, he has helped so many. His family was helped knowing parts of him were living on in men, women and children.

Xavier was vibrant, easy going, and lovable. His 13 months on earth touched everyone who came into contact with him. His mom was easily his best friend; you wouldn’t see him without seeing her close by. She loved him so easily and so uninhibited. With the help of OneLegacy and Donate Life California, the decision to encourage others has been met through his donation of his liver, lungs, pancreas, both kidneys and small intestine. The family has had so many chances to celebrate his life and his legacy. They also have the opportunity to share our story and encourage others to make the decision to donate life. Xavier’s mom never thought in a million years she would become an organ donor, but she has seen first-hand how donation can affect so many lives.

Yohan was a kid who always was there with a helping hand. He loved to play football and basketball and enjoyed watching sports. He loved Monrovia High School, his friends and especially his teammates. Yohan’s family agreed that when tragedy hit, organ donation is something Yohan would want. Yohan’s left kidney was transplanted into a 54-year-old woman in California. A 55-year-old man in California received Yohan’s right kidney. Yohan’s lungs were transplanted into a 58-year-old woman in Arizona. A 51-year-old California man received Yohan’s heart. Yohan’s liver was transplanted into a 53-year-old man also from California. Many will miss Yohan’s big smile, big bear hugs and his eyes.

Zoë had a personality that would light up a room when she entered it. She was a short, bow legged, sweet and loving baby. She was only 13 months old when she passed away in April 2011, but her family called her an old soul. Zoë was 7 months old when she started walking, which shows how determined she was. Zoë had a great bond with all of her grandparents, especially her grandfather. They would go for walks in the park all the time, no matter the weather. The lives of three boys were saved when Zoë passed away, which was perfect because she was such a tomboy. The Jackson family has had the chance to meet Zoë’s kidney recipient, who is now 19 and graduated high school. “…Even though she is gone, Zoë will live forever in the hearts and memories of those she touched in her short life.”