Heroes
On July 16, 2005 two of my daughters, Michele and Heidi, and my grandson, Gavin, attended the Lifeline of Ohio Dash for Donation.
This event is designed to promote organ and tissue donation, and make people aware of the dire need for donors. There were hundreds of people there – some running/walking for family or friends that have received the precious Gift of Life. Some running/walking because they were one of the fortunate ones who had received a new chance at life.
I was one of the lucky ones. I received my transplant January 28, 1998. I told my wife when we were married in December 1969 that because I was a diabetic I would probably die between my 50th and 60th birthdays. (I knew 60 would be pushing it.) In November 1998, I turned 50. Without my kidney/pancreas transplant, there is no doubt in my mind that I would have NOT reached that milestone. Now I am able to walk with my family in events like the Dash for Donation.
I shed a tear when thinking about my best friend, Fred, pictured with me on the right, who was one of the 18 people that die every day waiting on an organ transplant. He died October 13, 2003. It makes me realize how blessed and grateful I am each day.
We’re always being asked to donate our money and our time. Money and time are important gifts that are needed for many causes. But being an organ and tissue donor is the most precious gift of all. Encourage someone to be a donor – they may be someone’s hero one day. Someone out there was my hero. Be a hero. Donate Life.