Jim Carter rides the float in honor of his daughter Andrea, who became an organ and cornea donor at 17 after suffering serious head injuries in a car accident. Since Andrea’s donation, Jim has been part of the Vermont Volunteers for Organ Donation and he also initiated a donation education program in Vermont high school driver education classes.

Jim's Story

Andrea Carter was a 17-year-old athlete who was involved in many high school and community activities in Underhill, VT. On November 4, 1990, Andrea and a friend were driving home after working on the school yearbook when a car hit their truck. Andrea, an unbelted passenger in the truck, sustained serious head injuries. She never recovered.

Although Andrea’s family did not know her wishes regarding donation, they knew she was a compassionate and giving person who wanted to be a blood donor and was always willing to help others. Andrea’s parents, Jim and Sue, consented so that Andrew could donate her heart, kidneys, liver and corneas.

After Andrea’s death, Jim, a high school teacher, was asked to join the Vermont Volunteers for Organ Donation. He gave presentations to students about the importance of wearing seatbelts and making the decision to donate and sharing that decision with one’s family.

In 2000, Jim initiated a program in Vermont high school driver education classes about organ donation and driver safety. He now travels throughout Vermont to share Andrea’s story with students. In 2007, Jim and a transplant recipient from Vermont gave a speech at the National Driver’s Education Convention. Since he started these presentations, Jim has participated in more than 1,100 events and made presentations to more than 90 schools, clubs and community organizations.

Now retired, Jim is also active in the Transplant Donor Network, which is involved with organ donation outreach, support and educational projects. In 2006, Jim received a Community Service Award from the Center for Donation & Transplant for his work inspiring people to donate life.

“I never get tired of talking about Andrea and donation,” Jim said. “The act of donating means a lot to me and my family, and the feedback I get from my volunteering makes me feel like I am really making a difference. Andrea shared with us for 17 years. Now she is sharing her body and story with others.”