News & Stories

by Kim Hoser

My son Jonah was born 14 years ago with a serious heart defect that changed our lives. He needed several open-heart surgeries but what would save his life in 2001 was a heart transplant. He was only four years old. His donor was seven.

Jonah loved everything OSU. But his ultimate light in his life was Brutus Buckeye.

The Hoser Family and Brutus at "A Day of Hope, Remembrance and Celebration" in April 2011

I remember attending sporting events where we would be watching the game and all Jonah did was watch Brutus. He always wanted to know where Brutus was… and would follow him to get a big hug or autograph.

Jonah was Brutus for Halloween one year and he thought that was the best costume ever. He always had a lot of energy, but when he put his Brutus costume on I think his energy soared even higher.

In April of 2010, Jonah was called to our heavenly home and we were able to honor him and his donor family at the Day of Hope, Remembrance and Celebration held at Lifeline of Ohio held one year later.

It was a 24-hour event and each speaker had an hour to celebrate their loved one in a special way. I decided it would be awesome to have Brutus during my hour of remembrance of our son. Brutus came in full force and honored Jonah in the only way Brutus can – with enthusiasm, respect, and utmost love.

Jonah in 2005

I know Jonah was singing the fight song with us that day from above with his big grin on his face looking down and saying…Give me an O!! Give me an H!

We are very thankful that we were able to have nine more wonderful years with Jonah. That is all because someone said yes to organ donation.

Be a Buckeye for Life, sign up today as an organ and tissue donor!