Adam Wasielewski was an active and precocious child. He was riding a two-wheeler and skateboarding at the age of three. At four, he was building ramps for his bike and skateboards. By the age of six, his boundless energy was channeled into baseball, swimming, and soccer. But his true athletic love bloomed on the golf course. He played at least once a week and called Oakhaven Golf Club in Delaware, Ohio “his course.” Adam passed away on June 6, 2010 after a car accident while on his way to kindergarten. The active, curious, affectionate boy was only six years old, but his legacy of laughter and love continues. Adam’s family made the decision to donate Adam’s tissue. Adam’s spirit lives on and his gifts keep on giving—not only to the recipients of his corneas, heart values and tissue but also to his family, friends, and community.

Alexander Sonora was a good son, and very loving to his family.  From the age of 12, Alex had a passion for photography.  He would ask his mother for her camera, climb onto the roof at night, and take photos of space, the moon and the stars.  Alex’s teachers shared that he was one of the best photography students in his class.  He was also a creative artist, known for his graffiti art. Alex was only 21 years old when he died in a car accident on November 30, 2011.  Alex’s family never spoke of death and organ donation, but once Alex was declared brain dead, his family thought about organ donation to  honor Alex’s legacy.  Thanks to his gifts, Alex saved four lives through organ donation.  His family has had the honor of meeting Alex’s recipients.  Through his donation, his family has participated in several events hosted by OneLegacy to honor Alex’s memory.

Andrew was born in 1979 in St. Louis. He had three sisters. He was a typical little boy growing up, although he struggled with a learning disability his whole life. He loved playing and watching football, setting records at his school.  He also learned to play guitar and wrote music. His favorite Christmas present was a Gibson guitar that belonged to his father. Despite his struggles with school, Andrew got a job and was able to support himself in his own home. He even helped friends who needed support. He was able to buy his pride and joy, a purple Z28 convertible. Unfortunately, in 2001 he suffered a fatal crash in that car, with the guitar in the trunk at the time. He was 11 days short of his 22nd birthday. His parents decided to donate his corneas and tissues, knowing that through these gifts, Andrew’s memory lives on in others.

When Briana Brooks received her permit, she made the decision to register as an organ donor, and with that single act, she would change the lives of others forever. From a young age, Briana wanted to be a pediatrician, graduating from George Washington Carver, Health and Sciences Research High School with a scholarship to continue her studies, after taking a brief break to become a mother. Briana was seven months pregnant with her third child when she and her fiancé were kidnapped at gunpoint. They were found hours later with catastrophic wounds to the head; Briana was barely alive. Once at the hospital, she underwent an emergency C-section to save her unborn baby, Kaylie. Three days later, Briana’s decision to save lives became a reality, when she was declared brain dead.  Briana’s legacy continues through her three children and the recipients of her organs. Her family took comfort knowing Briana’s life was going to be remembered for the four lives she saved through organ donation. Briana’s family now volunteers with LifeLink of Georgia to share her story.

Bryan Herrington, husband, father of 5, youngest sibling of 4, was always one to help and serve where needed.  After graduating from FSU, he headed to Orlando to find a way to utilize his degree in Graphic Arts, and provide for his three kids at the time.  There he met his wife, Terri, and eventually they moved back to Pensacola to help his parents with the family roofing business. On July 13, 2004, Bryan and his brother Ed responded to a client call.  The slippery PVC caused Bryan to lose his footing and fall.  Bryan never recovered. Many years prior, Bryan registered as an organ donor. With that decision, Bryan gave the gift of life to Mary Jo with functioning lungs, Jeff with a left kidney and pancreas, Howard with a liver, and his heart and right kidney to another recipient. His tissues have helped over 10 burn victims.

From salutatorian of her high school class, to earning a University of Chicago degree, to being a loving wife and mother of two, Carrie E. Fisher exceeded all expectations. Proudly born and raised in New Jersey, Carrie’s determination and drive was seen by anyone she encountered. Carrie had the kindest heart and her distinctive laugh and bright smile always showed. She obtained her Masters in Communication Science from Rutgers University, and later started a career as an executive in a consulting firm. A full-time job did not stop her from having two children, Erica and Jacob, and from being a fabulous wife to her husband Michael. After a sudden stroke at only 47 years old, Carrie’s family found out she was an organ donor. Her gift of organ and tissue donations not only saved lives, but also inspired her daughter to pursue a career in the organ donation field.

Christopher was a sophomore at Washington University in St. Louis. On a Friday afternoon in October of 1990, he was crossing the street in front of the university to ride his bike through Forest Park, when he was hit by a car.  When his parents found him at the hospital the next morning, the ICU physician told them that Christopher had suffered severe head trauma and would not recover. The family was approached the next day by a representative of Mid-America Transplant, who asked them if they would consider organ donation. Christopher was officially declared dead around 11:30 am that Sunday morning of October 7, 1990.  He was able to donate his heart, liver, two kidneys, two corneas and bone tissue. His family later learned that Christopher’s heart helped save a local patient, and they cried tears of joy knowing that someone’s life was saved through the gift of organ, eye and tissue donation.

Born premature on May 2, 1989 in Birmingham, AL, Courtney suffered from hydrocephalus (fluid in the brain) since birth and needed multiple surgeries during her first weeks of life. Growing up, Courtney overcame many health challenges, but she was able to live a great life, graduating from high school and attending college. She married Allen Harris in 2012, and they enjoyed three wonderful years together. Courtney was a registered donor since she received her first driver’s license, and upon her death in 2015, she helped save more than 100 people, including five organ recipients. Courtney’s heart and lungs were donated to 14-year old Angelynn.  Students and staff at her School partnered with the Alabama Organ Center and AL Rep. Steve Hurst to pass AL HB-411, changing the name of “The Uniform Anatomical Gift Act” to “Angelynn and Courtney’s Law.” This Law has helped personalize organ donation in Alabama and beyond.

Growing up, Dennis was a sweet boy. He always had a smile that could brighten everyone’s day. He was an active Boy Scout who gave back to his community. He believed in living life to the fullest. He enjoyed skateboarding, snowboarding, and surfing. Dennis loved nature and camping at the beach. When Dennis was a senior in high school, his father Randy became ill with lung cancer, and a month after the diagnosis, Randy passed away. This was extremely hard on Dennis. Nearly two years after his father’s death, Dennis attempted to take his own life. He was placed on life support at Loma Linda University Medical Center and he was later declared brain dead. His family made the difficult decision to donate Dennis’ organs, and through his gifts, Dennis saved four lives. His family takes comfort in knowing that out of their loss, four people were saved and able to continue on through Dennis' contribution.  

Dr. Randall Marc Giles loved life, was highly dedicated to saving lives, and always wanted to make a difference. He enjoyed traveling with his family and he formed close, life-long friendships. From an early age, Randy knew he wanted to serve others.  Upon graduation from the University of Delaware, Randy pursued graduate studies, completed medical school in New York and finished an internship at St. Clare’s Hospital in New York City. He completed residency in General Surgery and Trauma at St. Barnabas Hospital and his fellowship in Critical Care in 2006.  Randy practiced as a Trauma/Critical Care and General Surgeon for six years in Paterson, N.J. and was about to enter private practice in 2012 at the time of his death.  Randy worked closely with NJ Sharing Network in the Intensive Care Unit, and upon his death, he saved five lives and healed 75 others through organ and tissue donation.

As a loving brother, son and friend to many, Dylan always had a sweet, gentle way about him. He loved to sing and he participated in several choirs at church and in school. Dylan also loved to play volleyball, indoor and on the sand. At the age of 19, Dylan was involved in an auto accident and declared brain dead 3 days later. This was not the first experience with organ donation and transplantation for the Stumps. Dylan’s grandmother had two liver transplants back in the 80’s, but she died shortly after. With a first-hand knowledge about the importance of donation, when Dylan turned 16, he registered as a donor on his driver’s license. Dylan’s heart, liver, lungs, and kidneys helped save five lives. His eyes went to research, and his tissues can heal up to 213 lives. Dylan’s family recently met his heart recipient, and she is now a part of their family. To honor his memory, Dylan’s mom is a OneLegacy Ambassador, and she volunteers her time to share the importance of organ, eye and tissue donation in Southern California.

Erik Allen Fitzpatrick loved life and loved people.  His wife, family and wide circle of friends loved him for who he was: a caring, compassionate soul who would do anything for anyone. After graduating from college, Erik worked with recovering drug addicts and in his spare time tutored children.  He started law school to help defend the underserved.  In May 2010, right before starting a summer internship, Erik was tragically killed in an accident. Erik was a man who lived by his principles and whose most important goal in this world was to help others.  Erik was a blood donor and was on the bone marrow registry.  He even applied to become a living kidney donor to a complete stranger.  Erik was adamant that upon his death, he wanted to donate his organs and tissues.  Thanks to his gifts, Erik’s legacy lives on in the people he saved through donation.

Evan Joseph Tellier was just beginning his life, and he managed to enjoy it with a passion, an easygoing smile, and a bubbly personality. His love of trying new things, and passion for swimming were only superseded by his love of family. Evan was so excited to be a big brother; he would tell anyone that would listen how his new baby sibling was gonna be nicknamed Jelly, because he was Peanut Butter! Evan loved and was protective of his little brother, Brayden, often holding his hand or with his arm slung over Brayden's shoulders. The two went everywhere together, often with Evan's best friend and cousin, Andrew. The boys loved to hang out together despite the age difference. Evan loved going to his Aunty Nee Nee’s house and seeing his cousins, aunt, and uncle. Evan also enjoyed time with his entire family at the beach and would always be found in the water, happiest swimming an entire day away. Evan had just graduated kindergarten and was excited to start school again. His love of math, numbers, and the human body were beyond his years. Evan often played with anatomy dolls that he could take apart and put back together. He loved looking at photos and videos of how the body worked. He was even sent home from school for “talking back" when he corrected his kindergarten teacher on the proper name for an epiglottitis. Evan was able to donate his heart, kidneys, liver, and corneas. Being able to help save the lives of others would have made Evan very happy.

Everardo was a devoted husband and father, with a smile that lit up the room, and a generous heart that illuminated the world with love.  He put that love into every meal he cooked – for 20 years, he enjoyed a rewarding career as a head chef. When he was not in the kitchen, he was outdoors enjoying time with his wife, or playing with their three young children. Born in Patzcuaro Michoacán, Mexico, Everardo loved helping others. In the spring of 2016, Everardo suffered a fatal aneurysm. He was a registered donor, and he was able to donate 5 organs, including his loving heart. Thanks to his gifts, he saved the lives of three people – two of whom needed a double organ transplant. Everardo also gave the precious gift of tissue, which can heal up to 75 people. His family takes comfort in knowing the many lives he has touched.

Francisco “Pancho” Esparza was 25 years old when he passed away.  He was the youngest of seven with three sisters and three brothers.  He was one-half Native American of the Muscogee Creek Nation.  He was a single father raising his three daughters, ages 7, 8 and 9 years old at the time of his death. Francisco was known by his family and friends as a very generous and helpful person.  After receiving a promotion at work, Pancho went out to celebrate and he was shot in the chest. He did not recover from his wounds. When it became time to donate his organs, his family did not hesitate to say “yes” to donation, to honor Pancho’s giving spirit. Because of Pancho’s tissue donation, he helped heal 142 people across 25 different states, as well as one person in Turkey. By participating in OneLegacy and Donate Life events, Pancho’s family has been able to hold onto fond memories.

Garrett Patrick Thompson was born on October 4, 2000. As he grew, his sparkling blue eyes, darling dimples and sweet smile brought joy to everyone he met and helped him charm his way out of any mischief he may have found himself in. Garrett was always on the go. He loved to race his Hot Wheels cars and watch NASCAR. Garrett also loved to play ball and started playing baseball as soon as he was old enough. In July of 2007, Garrett was playing with his younger brother, Avery. Garrett fell and had an injury that would lead to stroke-like symptoms. He did not recover from his injuries. Hoping to have something good come out of this devastating loss, Garrett’s family fully embraced the life-giving opportunity of organ donation. Garrett saved four young lives by donating his heart, kidneys and liver. Today his family works to share the importance of donation. Larabee supports new donor families through her work with the Louisiana Organ Procurement Agency (LOPA.)

The Donate Life Rose Parade® Float, in all its glory, is “America’s Donate Life Celebration.” Each New Year’s Day, this majestic float travels down Colorado Boulevard inspiring millions throughout the world as it celebrates the best of humanity. This unique and remarkable float came into existence due to the vision of one man, lung recipient Gary Foxen. Gary wrote a heartfelt letter suggesting that OneLegacy enter a float in the historic Rose Parade® to spread the word about the life-saving benefits of organ, eye and tissue donation. He wanted to inspire a nation to celebrate the lives of donors, their families and the lives of those who have been saved from other’s ultimate gift. Gary was persistent. His perseverance paid off the day he received the call that the Tournament of Roses had approved Donate Life’s application for an entry in the 2004 Rose Parade®. The beginning of a more meaningful chapter in his life, Gary said, “It was one of my best days ever.” In June 2004, Gary received the Coalition on Donation’s James Wolf, MD Award for his “Inspiration and Commitment to Increasing Organ and Tissue Donation.” In 2006, Gary participated as a rider on the Donate Life float “Life Transformed.”  When asked about working on the float Gary stated, “I have seen two Donate Life floats developed, designed and decorated by hundreds of volunteers who wanted to honor the memory of their loved ones passed and to show their support for organ, eye and tissue donation. The messages and stories that have been generated by these caring individuals have been most inspiring and I have come to appreciate the tremendous impact of these floats.” In November of 2014, Gary passed away. As we know, strength comes in numbers and in Gary’s case it was no different. His wife Lois was by his side just as involved as he was on this most incredible journey. Lois’ kind heart and inspiration was second to none. The Donate Life community lost Lois this past June. As a way to honor them both, this year’s float will be adorned with a floragraph of both Gary and Lois decorated with sadness and celebration. Because of their commitment, we have this magical float to say to the world that donation works. As established as tradition with the 2015 float, Gary’s iconic hat will continue to ride down Colorado Boulevard in his memory of his gift to Donate Life. Gary and Lois’ impact is immeasurable and their legacy lives on, remaining an inspiration to our community.

Whether skydiving in Tulsa, or longboarding down a hill in Salt Lake City, Hance had a zest for adventure! Growing up, he was very active and constantly on the go. Hance loved the great outdoors, and through rock climbing, camping, scuba diving, biking and running, he saw some of the most beautiful wonders of the world. He was admired as a friend and he was an inspiration of faith to all those around him. He was a proud Christian, and loved serving at his church and helping on church missions. Hance attended college on a full NROTC scholarship, pursuing a degree in Geography. The night before Hance was to return home after finishing his first year of college, his life was tragically taken by a drunk driver. Hance’s donation helped restore sight to a man, so that he could see the beautiful wonders of the world – just like Hance did.

Haylee Ponte of Sparks, Nevada was an active and vibrant young woman. She loved to ski, dance, and travel with family and friends. She was an altruist and she volunteered her time to help local people affected by breast cancer, as well as at a northern Nevada hospital. Haylee excelled academically as a biochemistry student at the University of Nevada, Reno hoping to become a physician. Haylee’s hopes and dreams were sadly taken away when she died in 2015 as a result of an acute asthma attack; she was only 19. Even in their grief, her parents were considering organ and tissue donation before they learned that Haylee was already a registered donor.  Knowing that she made the decision herself was comforting to them, but not surprising because they knew how generous she was in life. Through her organ and tissue donation, Haylee saved three lives and healed many others.

Born on January 18, 1986, Herbert was the life of the family.  He was kind, loving, happy and always brought happiness to his family and friends. Growing up, Herbert attended several schools in San Pedro and Palos Verdes. In May 1998, Herbert received honorary recognition as one of the “Future Leaders of San Pedro.”  Herbert graduated in Business and Administration and ran his own company before he died. Herbert died on August 15, 2015, at the age of 29. Before his fatal accident, Herbert and his fiancé were about to get married and have children. Their son, James, was born months after Herbert’s life ended. Herbert loved to help people.  He was a certified Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) and loved to work in this field.  Herbert donated blood to the Red Cross twice a year.  Herbert’s family finds comfort after donating his organs, knowing that Herbert lives on through his recipients.

Hunter Alexander Weiss was born June 30, 1997. He was the second twin born prematurely that day, and he spent 41 days in the NICU with his twin brother. Growing up, Hunter was a stubborn child with a good heart. He was passionate about everything, about life. As time went on, his artistic side started coming out. He loved music, and wanted to make a career of it somehow. When Hunter was 14, he had a seizure one morning before school. Doctors diagnosed him with a growth on the left side of his brain, and he was later transported to Oakland’s Children’s Hospital, where he eventually had surgery. He stayed in the hospital for a month to recover. It was not surprising that Hunter had registered to be a donor, and ultimately gave the gift of sight to two people, so they can see the beauty in this world.

Jacob Mendiola adored his family and friends. His infectious laugh and sense of humor brought happiness to many. Jacob was adventurous and fearless. He loved music, dancing, video games, and swimming. Jacob had a unique gift of expressing love and impacting those around him.  At age 14, Jacob had just begun his freshman year of high school. Sadly, on November 6, 2014, Jacob departed from this world through an unfortunate accident.  Maryann made the decision to donate Jacob’s organs, something she feels Jacob would want knowing that he wanted to help anyone and that he thrived off of giving to others.  Jacob continued to love others by donating his heart, liver, and kidneys. Since Jacob’s passing, his family has participated in events like the Donate Life Run/Walk and Rose Parade float decorating as a way to honor Jacob and keep his memory alive.

Jill Marie Collier-Kerr was born May 26, 1978 in San Diego and grew up in San Marcos, California with her parents and her three brothers. Jill’s sons were her greatest joy and proudest accomplishments. In January 2006, she married the love of her life, Greg Kerr. Her beauty was expressed in her relationships and her passions, including aerial silks, playing piano, dancing, boating, and surfing. Jill’s life calling was to care for others. Upon graduating with a degree in Nursing, she worked at the Neuro ICU at Sunrise Hospital. She received the 2015 Daisy Foundation Award, a national award presented to extraordinary nurses. As a nurse she often comforted families about their loved ones’ wishes to donate their organs. Jill made it her personal goal to advocate for organ donation. Through her passing, she gave the hope of life to seven others. Jill will be in our hearts forever. .

Adventurous from a young age, Joel Eggert had a lust for life. He was creative, intelligent, and inquisitive. He made friends easily, building lifelong relationships. A sharp dressed man, Joel could usually be found donning his characteristic bandanna and sunglasses, perched atop a Harley Davidson-his preferred mode of transportation. Art and creativity also played a role throughout his life. Drawing and metal sculpting were among his favorite hobbies, and he played the guitar, piano, and drums. Joel was a dedicated employee, creating beautiful metal work for a luxury yacht builder. Joel was also a family man. He was a loving father to his son Zak, daughter Rhiannon, and granddaughter Hayley. On a rainy December night in 2016, Joel took his last ride. After a motorcycle accident, he passed away five days before his 47th birthday. His legacy of generosity lives on in the recipients of his organs, corneas, and tissue.

Joseluis was 23 years old when his life was taken.  He was hardworking, responsible, and fully dedicated to his family. Joseluis was a father of three young children. He had four sisters who adored him with all their heart, and a mother and father who spoiled him to his very last day. Joseluis had a unique sense of humor and always made everyone laugh. He loved art. Drawing, attending art walks, exploring different restaurants, and maintaining his car were his biggest hobbies.  Joseluis believed that one day he would become a millionaire with his artwork and creative ideas. Fokis was his artistic signature. Through organ donation, Joseluis is worth more than a million to his family, and to all those he helped give a second chance to live. On December 1st, 2012, Joseluis was declared brain dead, after his life was taken unexpectedly. His family said “yes” to donation, and through his gifts, Joseluis helped save five lives. Since then, his family has met one of his kidney recipients, and to honor his memory, his sisters volunteer their time as OneLegacy Ambassadors.

Born prematurely in 1977, Josh grew up as a typical playful and curious child.  He enjoyed being outdoors and working with his hands.  Josh enjoyed reading, watching documentaries, touring museums and always listening to an older generation recount their life stories. He also had different hobbies and sports, including dirt bike riding, hockey, playing the guitar, gardening and fishing. Josh was compassionate and loyal.  He loved helping friends and family in any way possible.  One of Josh’s proudest moments was the birth of his son, Nolan.  Josh cherished his role as father. For Josh’s family, being a donor brought two of his beautiful qualities together: being a giver and always wanting to help others.  Josh made that important choice when receiving his driver’s license. Each year Josh’s family honors him by participating in the Donate Life Run/Walk and by decorating the Donate Life Rose Parade float.

Whether through music, kind words or wise counsel beyond his years, Justin David Langford had a special way of making people feel valued and understood. He found joy engaging with those around him, befriending people of all ages. Justin was born on January 24, 1991, in Franklin, Indiana. Growing up, he enjoyed reading, refereeing youth soccer, going to church, singing, and playing piano and guitar. He graduated from Zionsville Community High School in 2009, and later earned a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering at Vanderbilt University. After graduating, Justin started working in Indianapolis as a calibrations engineer. Justin’s generous spirit was evident in countless ways throughout his 23 years, including his decision to register as an organ donor. When he died after a work-related traffic accident in 2014, he helped save five people, including a two-year-old boy.  Justin also enhanced more than 22 lives through his corneas and tissues.

Leah Elizabeth Brown was a fearless young woman, with a contagious smile and an irreverent charm. Born March 1, 1995 in Kansas City, MO, Leah had a knack for winning over everyone she met. As a child, she attended Queen of the Holy Rosary School. She played different sports in high school, and continued her education in College and later at Fort Hays State University, before joining the Navy. She enjoyed spending time with family and friends. She also loved riding her motorcycle, dancing, roller skating, riding horses, and baking. A stray bullet, meant for someone else, caused her untimely death on October 1, 2017. She had lived life to the fullest and, as a vocal supporter of organ donation, her gifts are now benefitting at least 50 recipients. Fittingly, beneath her final Instagram post, Leah wrote, “Be fearless in the pursuit of what sets your soul on fire.”

Michael Craig Dennis loved life, his family and God. He was a hardworking man, who was outgoing and could strike up a conversation with anyone. Michael worked 32 years for UPS, being active in the Teamsters Union and supporting his fellow workers as a Union Steward. When he retired, he dedicated his time to his family and his favorite pastime: farming. He loved the land and raising cattle, a passion that started when he was in high school. Michael was a caring, selfless, pay-it-forward type of man, who never expected anything in return for himself.  He was a strong believer in being an organ donor and encouraged others to be donors as well. When he died in a tragic accident at the age of 58, his gift of life helped restore the sight to two people through cornea donation, and healed 79 people as a cardiovascular and tissue donor.

Michael Davis was a 19-year-old college sophomore, who aspired to attend law school after graduation.  Michael was an adventurous, fun-loving, kind-hearted free spirit, who always lived life to the fullest!  Kind and loving, his outgoing personality endeared him to everyone. On Christmas Eve 2015, Michael suffered a traumatic brain injury when the car he was riding in was rear-ended by a careless driver.  Michael did not survive. Because Michael registered as an organ donor at age 16 when he applied for a driver’s license, the prayers of five individuals were answered.  Michael’s donated heart, lungs, kidneys, pancreas and liver, saved five lives.  His corneas restored the gift of sight to two, and his bone and tissue donations enhanced the lives of 273 people nationwide. Michael’s decision to be an organ donor was a tribute to his father, who lost his life to liver cancer when Michael was 9 years old.

Raphael Tremaynes Skinner, Jr. was a loving son, brother and friend. He loved sports, always acting as a dedicated team player.  He loved his church and he especially enjoyed working in the church’s garden. He was a little comedian, outspoken and funny, and loved to make his family and friends laugh.  He also enjoyed riding four-wheelers, doing back flips and climbing Pinnacle, an Arkansas mountain. This 12-year-old boy stood up to bullies in his school, protecting those that could not stand up for themselves. The rhythm of Raphael’s life was helping others through his bravery, laughter, dancing, and generosity. The rhythm of his heart continues in the two recipients of his heart valves, in the numerous bone and soft tissue recipients he helped around the country, and in the hearts and minds of his family and friends who honor him each year on the anniversary of his donation.

Ricky Joel Young loved life and lived it to the fullest. He enjoyed helping others and never missed an opportunity to do so. His hobbies included fishing, hunting, fast cars and working in the logging industry. On April 29, 2012, Ricky was in a horrific accident. He was air lifted to St. Vincent’s Hospital in Little Rock, Arkansas, where he did not recover from his traumatic injuries. His parents did not know until that day that Ricky was a registered donor. While Ricky was in the hospital, his family was praying for a miracle. Through his generosity, Ricky provided a miracle to others.  It is a great comfort to know that part of Ricky lives on in the life of others.  His family has received letters from some of Ricky’s organ recipients and they are comforted to know that each of them are very thankful for his gift of life.

To know Drew David was to love him. He was full of life and had enough love to share with every life he touched. In his short 17 years, Drew accomplished so much. He loved life and lived each day to its fullest. Drew was a starting wide receiver for the Camden High School Bulldog football team. He also played baseball at his local high school.  While he devoted much of his time to the athletic fields, he also always made time to brighten someone’s day.  He had an ear for music and taught himself to play the guitar and the piano beautifully.   Drew lost his life to a tragic car accident that left him brain dead. His family learned during the darkest of times that Drew was a registered donor since the age of 16. Thanks to his gift, Drew saved four lives and helped restore sight to another.  

Sandy Pekrul, of Enid, Oklahoma, had a huge heart. She would spoil her friends and family with every chance she had, and she was kind and caring to her friends and loved ones. She could always be found wearing a smile and flashing her beautiful blue eyes. She enjoyed helping with community events and loved volunteering her time to help others. She loved going to church and singing in her church choir every Sunday. Sandy cherished every moment with her children, Adam and Angela, and was involved in every school and after school activity for them. After an unexpected and tragic event, Sandy did not survive. She was a registered organ donor, and had discussed donation with her family. Her generous spirit in life continued through the powerful gift of organ donation.  One of her lifesaving gifts went to Mike McClellin, Donate Life float rider, who honors Sandy through his actions every day.

Sean was a loving and caring Son, Brother, Grandson, Nephew and Friend.  Although he was only 14 when he left us, he touched many people and made a true impact on their lives. Sean enjoyed playing baseball with his brother and being the DJ for his brother’s hockey team.  He always was there to help a friend by sharing his knowledge, advice or just listening.  Sean had a true thirst for knowledge.  He loved to read, write and learn all he could about everything.  His love of music led him to learn to play the guitar and write his own lyrics.  He truly enjoyed playing music with his friends.  In 7th grade, Sean successfully passed his college boards and participated in the John Hopkins Gifted and Talented Program. He was excited to be able to spend time with others who shared his love of writing.  When the decision was made for Sean to become a donor, there was no hesitation that it would have been something he would have wanted to do. This was confirmed by his last post on his social media page.  It was a quote he wrote just before leaving the house that day, “We all die, the goal is to create something that will last forever”.  Being an organ donor, Sean has done just that.  Sean's donation has touched one hundred people: six organs, two corneas and ninety-two tissue donations.   Several of Sean’s recipients have reached out and are now part of the extended family. Kidney recipients, Melissa and Mercedes, Lung Recipient, Craig and Heart Recipient, Stefania.  Stefania has since given birth to 3 children all because of Sean’s gifts.  He reached his goal, he will live forever as a hero to those he helped.

Senquez Jackson was born Sept. 27, 2000, in Cedar Rapids, the son of Aaron Levy Jackson Sr. and Tamara Bloemendaal. He was a freshman at Washington High School in Cedar Rapids. Senquez was active in sports, including football, basketball and baseball. He enjoyed playing video games, playing with his dog, Buster, and hanging out with friends and his family, especially his mom.  He was passionate about getting the most out of life and was a great friend to all that he met.  He was a very kind young man and thanks to his gift of life, he helped save two lives by donating his kidneys, and heal many others through his pulmonary valves and other tissues donated upon his passing.  He is greatly missed by all those that knew him.

Shayna's story about giving the gifts of life began at 18 when she decided to register as an organ donor when applying for her driver’s license. Three years later, just after turning 21, Shayna did just that after an ear infection abscessed to her brain. On September 14, 2016, she became a hero to so many people. Her lungs went to a man with nine children. A 36-year-old woman received Shayna’s liver and one kidney. A 21-year-old young woman received Shayna's pancreas and kidney. She also donated tissue and corneas, helping more than 75 people live better lives. And – amazingly – because of Shayna, a woman in Ohio can now feed and care for herself and hold the ones she loves, because Shayna became Michigan’s first hand donor. Shayna had the most beautiful smile. She loved her family and friends, and she was a mother to a beautiful 14-month old boy named Oliver.

Born September 1983, in San Antonio, Texas, Stephanie Jimenez-Hernandez was a precocious, spirited and playfully mischievous little girl. A devoted daughter and doting sister to her three younger siblings, Stephanie was fiercely protective of others. She graduated with honors from Winston Churchill HS. She then attended UTSA, majoring in Biology. Later, she developed an interest in real estate and pursued a career in property management. By 19, she was managing her own apartment community. Stephanie was extremely well liked and respected by both her colleagues and residents. From a young age, Stephanie was vocal about organ donation. In 2011, following an automobile accident, Stephanie’s wishes to be an organ, eye and tissue donor were honored. Her family finds peace in knowing that Stephanie continues living on in every person impacted by her life, and they continue to honor her legacy by spreading awareness about the most important gift of all….The Gift of Life.

Born in Belfast, Northern Ireland in 1984, Stephen moved to New York with his family at age two. As an adult, he was a musician at heart and traveled with friends while performing at small clubs. He was the oldest of three children. Stephen loved to tease his two sisters, but he also introduced them to different kinds of music, which they still love to listen to today. At age 19, Stephen registered as an organ donor, knowing that one day he would be able to help others through transplantation. Stephen passed away on October 5, 2010, four days after his 26th birthday. He was surrounded by family and friends from Ireland and the U.S. Through Stephen’s courageous decision to be an organ donor, he gave the gift of life to four people. Stephen’s parents and siblings honor and remember him through their volunteer work, promoting the importance of organ donation.

On the basketball court—and in life—Steve McElvene made a big impression. In his first season playing for the University of Dayton Flyers, “Big Steve” as teammates and fans called him, blocked more shots than any Dayton player—ever. The personable, seven-foot center also impressed fans off the court. Steve never hesitated to take photos with fans who often recognized him in public. Two months after helping his team reach the 2016 NCAA tournament, Steve McElvene, just 20 years old, died at his home, collapsing from what was later determined to be an undiagnosed heart condition. While it was a tragic end to a vibrant life and a promising career, Steve made a decision the day before he died—he registered as an organ and tissue donor at the BMV. “Big Steve’s” decision that day resulted in his tissue donation—skin grafts, bone grafts, and vein —that eventually healed more than 75 people.

Steve Sepulveda was born on January 10, 1969, in El Paso TX, and he lived in Los Angeles until his passing on July 7, 2013, at the age of 44, from an enlarged heart. Steve was a great son, wonderful father and amazing husband.  He left behind 2 daughters, his wife, mother and 2 siblings. Growing up, Steve was a great kid with a lot of energy. He loved to play high school football and basketball. He attended Humboldt University after high school. Steve and his spouse started dating a few years after college. They were married for 17 years and had two beautiful young daughters. Steve was a registered donor, and his family is grateful to see him being honored at the 2019 Donate Life float. Knowing there is a little bit of their father still in this world, brings comfort to Steve’s daughters and family.

Teresa Ann Donnelly, better known as Terri to her family and friends, was born in Toledo, OH. Terri was a loving mother, compassionate nurse, and the oldest sister of seven. Terri’s passion for caring for others led her to pursue a degree in Nursing and a career at Sunrise Assisted Living, where she worked for over 17 years. Terri had four children: Amy, Jennifer, Stefanie and Brian, who kept her busy at school functions, sports and church activities. Once her children married, Terri became Mimi to her three grandchildren, Blake, Will, and Hadley, who continued to keep her busy with baseball games and dance recitals. On July 4, 2017, Terri suffered a traumatic brain injury after running the Peachtree Road Race. Even after her passing, Terri continued to care for others. She gave the ultimate gift of life by donating her kidneys to two people, and her eyes to research.

Tribhawan “Anand” Persaud was a friend to all. His cheerful heart and winsome smile were a gift to all who knew him. Growing up in Guyana, Anand fearlessly explored the outdoors and sought adventure wherever he would go. He was a leader in his village, Ruimzeith. With a special interest in agricultural sciences, Anand invested in the youth of his village by tutoring students. He was a mentor to many. In 2002, the Persaud family moved to America to pursue their dreams and seek a life of opportunities for their only son. Anand loved to travel and embraced his new life in America. He was working hard and making plans to earn his bachelor’s degree. Tragically, Anand passed away in a motor vehicle accident at the age of 21. Knowing Anand’s giving spirit, his parents said “yes” to organ donation, and Anand gave the gift of life and hope to six people.