The oldest of three and the only boy, Landon James Cole Mitchell was very active in football and enjoyed hunting and fishing. At only 17, he had a bright future as a junior at Solomon High School. On December 19, 2010, Landon lost control of his truck and died from his injuries. A registered organ donor, Landon was able to help more than 57 individuals through the gift of organ, tissue and cornea donation. His family is close with the recipients of his lungs and heart. "Not only did Landon save their lives, but he also saved ours by bringing them into our lives as a result of his gifts of donation," said his mother Tammy.

Landon's Story

The oldest of three and the only boy, Landon James Cole Mitchell was very active in football and enjoyed hunting and fishing. He loved hanging out with his best friends, Justin and Andrew, and chasing girls. He never had a bad day and could cheer anyone up with his smile or one of his famous hugs.

At only 17, Landon had a bright future as a junior at Solomon High School in Solomon, KS. On December 19, 2010, while on his way home, he lost control of his truck. After being airlifted to a trauma center, his family spent 12 hours praying and hoping.

Before doctors even told his family there was nothing more that could be done, they had discussed donation, not realizing Landon had recently registered when obtaining his driver's license. This had been his wish since seeing his Uncle Steve go through the transplant process and receive a new heart. At the time, he told Steve's family, “If I ever have to be a donor, I hope I make someone's family as happy as you all are now.”

Landon was able to help more than 57 individuals through the gift of organ, tissue and cornea donation. His family is close with Jamie, his double-lung recipient, and Dennis, his heart recipient. Jamie provided one of Landon's classmates a scholarship in Landon's honor, while Dennis is able to see his grandchildren grow up. The 10-year-old girl who received Landon's liver continues to be a big sister to her little sisters and hopes to become a writer someday.

According to his mother, Tammy Mitchell, "Not only did Landon save their lives, but he also saved ours by bringing them into our lives as a result of his gifts of donation."