Andrea Carney was born in Palmer, Alaska on September 16, 1982. According to her mother, Karen, by Andrea’s first birthday the family realized that she was very smart and vocal for her age. These qualities continued throughout high school, where she also expressed her opinions frequently despite the peer pressure that adolescents face. She was popular, compassionate, passionate, caring, daring and beautiful.

“One thing she was certain of was the choice to be an organ and tissue donor when she obtained her Alaska driver’s license,” said Karen. “Since she was a minor, she needed my permission. I agreed to sign her license, thinking to myself that I'd never have to make that choice anyway. Little did I know that in a few short months, my family would have to make that decision.”

Andrea died in January 2000, at the age of 17. “At the time of Andrea's death, my family was devastated, but the decision to donate her tissues and corneas was immediate and unanimous. In fact, it was the only good thing to come of her passing – knowing that others in need were helped to live, and live with a greater quality of life. This has brought my family peace that we desperately need to move forward in our grieving process. I think about her every day and miss her terribly.”