Andrea Dominguez was a vibrant, caring 22-year-old college student who was known as an unfailing giver. On February 22, 2005, a car accident ended Andrea's life but allowed her to become a hero as she gave the gift of life and hope. Shortly after her passing, her mother, Ofelia, brought a photo of Andrea and the poem "To Remember Me" to the ICU of University Medical Center of El Paso in inspire others to remember the precious gifts Andrea gave. Soon many photos of heroes graced the wall of the Intensive Care Unit, ultimately forming the first Wall of Heroes that is now being replicated at other hospitals nationwide.

Andrea's Story

Andrea Rae Dominguez was a vibrant and thoughtful 22-year old student at the University of Texas at El Paso who worked part-time and was an unfailing blood donor. She loved school, her professors, friends and family, but most of all she loved and celebrated life. She always saw the good in everyone and forgave transgressions without question or hesitation. Andrea's countless acts of kindness and thoughtfulness remain as a testament to her benevolent nature. Her dad said she always a giver and made the decision to be a donor when she obtained her driver's license.

Andrea was the type of person who would be the first to appeal to those who may not have given thought to organ donation. She would be steadfast in her conviction and would inevitably touch the senses of humanity with her compassion. "Go out and convince someone else to give the gift of life," she would say.

On February 22, 2005, Andrea became a hero following a tragic car accident. "Andrea's decision to give others a chance at living fuller lives has been a great source of consolation for our family and friends", said her mother Ofelia. "Knowing that Andrea lives on in others has given us reprieve from the emptiness and pain that seems never ending. It has opened our eyes to the plight of others and it has especially instilled the importance of organ donation to the many people Andrea touched."

Shortly after Andrea passed, her mother brought a photo of Andrea with the poem "To Remember Me" to the Intensive Care Unit of University Medical Center of El Paso for all to remember the precious gifts Andrea gave. This simple but powerful act led other families to consider donation; soon many photos of heroes graced the wall of the ICU and ultimately formed the Wall of Heroes there. Walls of Heroes can now be seen throughout the nation and continue to grow. Every time a new Wall of Heroes is created, Andrea's legacy continues and her passion of paying it forward can be seen.