Jeff Peterson’s five-year-old son, Erik, was kind, loving to his parents, and had a genuine love of nature and the outdoors. But on a beautiful evening in July 2008, fate interrupted the promise of a long life for Erik. As he was running and playing he fell, and in a freak accident, suffered a severe head injury. “On July 19, 2008, we prayed for a miracle that night, and we received one – the lives that were saved through Erik's gift of donated organs.” One of them, A.J., received a new liver, intestine, and pancreas from Erik in a transplant that A.J.’s surgeon said was “nothing short of a miracle.”

Jeff's Story

Jeff Peterson’s son, Erik, always had a kind word or a "hello,” whether for neighbors or complete strangers. When the day slowed down and all was quiet, five-year-old Erik would speak up and say "Mom and Dad, I love you." Erik had a genuine love of nature and enjoyed camping, hiking, riding his bike, fishing and spending time with his big brother Scott. Erik seemed to know that his time here would be short and wanted to live everyday to the fullest.

On a beautiful evening in July 2008, shortly following dinner, Erik wanted to go play with his friends in the backyard. When Erik stepped out the door that evening, he had no idea of the lives that would be changed forever. As Erik was running and playing he fell, and in a freak accident, suffered a severe head injury and was airlifted to Women's and Children's Hospital of Buffalo.

“On July 19th, 2008, Erik went home to be with Jesus. We prayed for a miracle that night, and we received one – the lives that were saved through Erik's gift of organ donations,” Jeff said. “We love and miss our son, but are very thankful for the people who received a second chance at life. In April 2009, we made contact with one of the recipients of Erik's gift.”

A.J. was an eight-year-old boy who had lived a life full of medical problems. In July 2008, his body had gone into a steady downward spiral. He had only a few months to live. A.J. received a new liver, intestine, and pancreas from Erik in a transplant that A.J.’s surgeon said was “nothing short of a miracle.”

“Our family has received healing to our deep emotional wounds, and been given both hope and some peace by knowing A.J. and his family,” Jeff affirmed. “We are so honored and thankful for being given the opportunity to be a part of A.J.'s life. God bless both of you, Erik and A.J., you now share a bond of love and friendship that extends beyond this world.”

Jeff, now 44, and his wife Pam are expecting their second child since Erik’s passing. Jeff hopes to meet A.J. and his family when he comes to California to participate on the Donate Life float in the Rose Parade.