2023 Floragraph Honorees
Meet our heroic organ, eye and tissue donors.
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Vibrant, driven, smart, beautiful, kind and wickedly funny, Amanda Lynne Wilken was a woman who thrived on all life had to offer. She was a gifted student at Drake University with the sole mission of becoming a pharmacist and someday serving veterans at the VA hospital. Amanda achieved her goal by earning her Doctorate of Pharmacy while, at the same time, earning her MBA. At the age of 23, Amanda’s life was tragically taken in an accident. Just as she had in life, Amanda found a way to share her kind and generous heart with so many, forever changing the lives of 251 people in the US, Switzerland, United Kingdom, and Malaysia. Amanda will forever be an inspiration to her Mom, her family and all who knew her kind and loving heart. We will always remember the beautiful blue-eyed girl who cared about others her entire life and well after. -
Anthony Javier Galvan was a loving brother, a great son, and a loyal friend. He had an infectious laugh and the most beautiful brown eyes that would light up the room. As a kid, he loved to ride his skateboard or his bike, and play online games. As a young man, he was and an avid sportsman. Snowboarding at Mt. High and driving his Razor and ATV on the sand dunes filled his passion for life. Anthony was struggling with mental health in silence, and he died of suicide. At the young age of 23, Anthony became a tissue donor. His family found out at the hospital that he was a registered donor, and it was an honor for them to respect his decision. His life couldn’t be saved, but his tissue donations improved the lives of 27 people. “He is our hero,” says his mom Maribel, who volunteers her time as a OneLegacy Ambassador, to honor Anthony’s legacy. -
Asante Contreras came into this world as a life force. He lived life to the fullest, leaving a lasting impression on everyone. He was a bright light, and a wonderful, giving coworker and friend, lifting the spirits of those around him. He dedicated his life to helping others and was working as an EMT to earn money for medical school, with hopes to become an ER physician. At the young age of 20, he died a day before he was supposed to take the test to complete the Paramedic Certification Program at UT Health San Antonio. When he arrived in his hometown, family and friends rallied in a procession to honor the young man who inspired them so much. Asante was able to leave one final, lasting gift. He was a cornea and tissue donor—a decision he had made when he got his driver's license. "Even in the end, he did what he wanted to do.” -
Barbara Lynn Schmit was purposeful in living her life as if it was Christmas every day. She was hard working in every aspect of her life. This dedicated, loyal, honest, ambitious and adventurous woman was involved in more activities than seemed possible for one person. She was highly active, loved hiking, diving, kayaking, worked as a sales representative for Office Supply Products, and had a huge heart for volunteerism in her community. At 65, she unexpectedly died from a double brain aneurysm. Her spouse knew that she wanted to donate her organs, tissues, eyes, bones, and her body to science. A hero in the eyes of her spouse, family and friends, as well as the three women who received her organs, her cornea recipient in Egypt, and the 326 tissue grafts recipients. In Barbara’s words, "It is important to me that other people regardless of their age, ethnicity, gender or religion have the same opportunities I have had." -
Brittany Kate Hoover, known for her smiles and laughter, was passionate, loving, kind, and giving. An awesome soccer player in high school and assistant coach for Little League, Brittany also volunteered in the senior center’s office. Her first job was teaching classes and working at her family’s floral business with her loving grandparents. She was accepted into the Job Corps and worked learning life skills, and was ultimately employed at Food Lion, where she made meaningful friendships and was a hard worker, always willing to do more than asked. She loved all animals and was passionate about finding homes for stray cats. Brittany’s final wish to become an organ donor was honored after her cardiac arrest on March 26, 2022, saving the lives of four recipients. Brittany's family became donors and are very proud of her selfless decision to help others. Brittany would not have considered herself a hero, but her family and friends do and are Brittany's biggest cheerleaders. -
Cindy Noemi Zecena was a beautiful mother of four, beloved daughter, sister, and friend. Cindy did not always travel an easy path in life, but she never complained. Working hard at multiple jobs to support her beautiful family did not dim her spirit of laughter and love. She was always available to offer a helping hand to others, and her HERO status was earned by the gift of her beautiful eyes, giving the gift of sight to her recipients through the donation of her corneas. Her family knows that this was one of the best decisions they could have ever made. They are proud that Cindy was able to affect someone else’s life in such a positive way through the gift of sight after her sudden death and are excited that she will be honored this year on the Donate Life float. They know Cindy’s legacy continues through her children, and her gift of donation. -
Dalton surprised doctors, miraculously surviving difficulties at birth. He became an outstanding athlete, musician and honor student, excelling at football, wrestling (NYS qualifier) and the upright string bass. While preparing to begin his college career at SUNY Plattsburg, with a major in Criminal Justice and a double minor in Music and History, Dalton aspired to live out his passion of making the world a better place for everyone. A standout in his community, he made sure that everyone around him felt welcomed and needed. A "Gospel Choir Baby", Dalton was surrounded by Plattsburgh State Gospel Choir family from birth and served as a Stepper and percussionist. He played drums and/or string bass for the School Orchestra, the PSGC and churches in the community. The “gentle giant” with a big heart gave the honorable sacrificial gifts of life and improved life through his organ and tissue donations, giving recipients a second chance at life. -
Emily Anne Bohnsack was an active, spunky, vibrant teenage girl with a zest for life. She loved being goofy with her friends and family. She was an active church goer, choir member, athlete and an excellent horseman. When she turned 16, she signed up to be an organ and tissue donor. A few months later, Emily was tragically killed in an automobile accident. Though grieving, her family found some comfort in knowing Emily gave the greatest gift… the gift of life. Grafts from her bone and connective tissue enhanced 37 lives, her skin tissue helped heal the lives of 189 burn patients, and six grafts were gifted to research for education and medical advancements. 226 lives have been directly impacted and countless more indirectly through education and research. Her family cherishes letters from recipients. Emily’s legacy lives on through her donations and in the hearts of so many impacted by her during her short life. -
Frederick (Fred) Parra was not just a Beatles fan but the quote “And in the end the love you take is equal to the love you make” became his living motto. Friends and family know that he left this earth with his heart filled with love, kindness, compassion and hope. He was known as the king of great things. Great food, great parties, great adventures, great ideas and just a great person. He was called the Mexican MacGyver, for his creative and innovative talents. He loved creating memories with his family and encouraged many to create memories with one another. Through his gifts of tissue and cornea donations, we know that people are experiencing and feeling the same sense of hope that he always gave to his loved ones. It is in these moments that we find comfort in knowing that his motto was so fitting in his life and in death giving someone a second chance. -
Hailey Palumbo was a loving daughter, sister, and friend. She was an energetic, good-hearted girl, bringing joy to others. She lit up a room; each day was an adventure. On May 23, 2017, Hailey passed away following a motor vehicle accident. The 15 year old sophomore was filled with big dreams. Her purpose in life was to make a positive impact on others. She planned to join the Air Force after high school and then enroll in college to become a surgeon. Hailey’s dream was to save lives. Despite her family’s overwhelming feeling of loss, they chose to make Hailey’s dream come true through organ and tissue donation. Hailey saved five lives and continues to give a better quality of life to many others through her tissue donation. Hailey's family made a powerful connection with two of Hailey’s recipients’ families, comforted by knowing that these amazing individuals have a better quality of life thanks to Hailey’s gifts. -
Ivan Sandoval was a handsome blue eyed baby with big dimples, born February 7, 2016. He had a spunky personality and could convince anyone to do whatever he wanted and was friends with everyone. Ivan’s motto in life was “I just want to be happy”. He loved being outside running wild, playing in the dirt, and playing games on his iPad like a pro. Ivan has two big sisters who he absolutely adored, sharing passion for TikTok videos and building Legos together. On June 7, 2021, the spunky, funny, loving boy was in a terrible accident that changed the lives of his family forever. His family chose to give others the chance to continue living through him. Ivan was able to donate his kidneys, liver, and tissue. His family says, “Our angel is still living on. His story is not yet over, and we will continue to share it. Ivan is our little superhero Hulk forever!” -
As the eldest of five children, Jacquez was a role model for his siblings. Marcia, Jacquez’s mom, described him as the peacemaker who always had a smile on his face. At 13, he began playing football and continued to play in high school, becoming a varsity middle linebacker and team captain. Jacquez had just achieved his dream of receiving an offer to play college football when, in the middle of a football game, he collapsed on the field. Jacquez suffered bleeding in his brain due to an undiagnosed condition called arteriovenous malformation, or AVM. Jacquez registered as an organ and tissue donor on his driver license, telling his mom, “I would love to be a donor one day if I can.” His family honored his decision and Jacquez saved and improved multiple lives through organ and tissue donation. His story touched many people, not only in his hometown, but all around the country. -
Jim Parson's sense of adventure, love for his children, and his ability to make people smile defined him. He was avid handyman with a heart for helping others. He loved cross county riding and raced competitively. He shared his passion for motorcycles with his children. He was declared brain dead after a dirt bike accident. He was a donor, but his organs were not viable for donation. However, he was the first human selected for a groundbreaking study through The University of Alabama Hospital in Birmingham and Legacy of Hope to successfully receive a genetically modified pig kidney. The kidneys produced urine throughout the 77-hour study, now called “The Parsons Model.” Doctors will conduct more testing with hopes to implant pig kidneys into living humans. Jim Parsons has impacted the world of organ donation and transplantation, paving the way to potentially wipe out the kidney transplant waiting list. He was a one-of-kind person with an incredible legacy. -
Johnathan Douglas Mondt, a true warrior, was diagnosed at 18 with T cell lymphoblastic lymphoma defeating cancer at 21. A dedicated employee at NAPA Auto Parts, he returned to work every day after receiving chemotherapy treatments. He met the love of his life, Cheyenne McCoy, married and shared two beautiful children (Draven and Maleena). At age 28, Johnny became a heavy-duty mechanic for Hycroft Mining, and absolutely loved it. In his world, family came first, and friends, a close second. He had one of the biggest hearts around; everyone who knew him loved him dearly. His three older brothers created “Mondster Garage”, honoring Johnny with a dedicated bay, tool box, and photos. Johnny enhanced his recipients’ lives with his tissue and cornea donation. “Not a day goes by where we don’t all think of him. He was one of the greatest men to come into our lives. We know he is always watching over his family.” -
Jose Angel Garcia was a dedicated husband and father, a generous friend, brother and son. Born in Mexico, he moved to the US at 18. He later reunited with Teresa, a childhood friend from Mexico, and after dating for two years, they got married and had two beautiful children. Even though he suffered from a congenital heart disease, affecting 3 generations of his family, Jose Angel had a great sense of humor and lived a full life. Jose Angel suffered his first heart attack at 30. Two years later, he suffered a second heart attack, and he was advised to take his heart medicine religiously. Jose Angel lived another 25 years following a healthy lifestyle, and seeing his children grow and become adults. On April 4, 2015, Jose Angel didn’t survive a third heart attack. His family said “YES” to donation and Jose Angel improved the lives of several people as a tissue donor. -
Joseph Peter Keenan spent his life making others look and feel great. As a hairstylist, he was beloved by his clients for his talent, humor, kindness, and conversation. His skills and passion led him to teaching and inspiring many cosmetologists. He adored his family and friends and enjoyed cooking for them. He was a huge music and movie buff, always singing or quoting movie lines. Joe was happiest when body surfing in Rhode Island or skiing Mammoth Mountain. His proudest moment was finally being able to legally marry the love of his life, Billy, sharing 20 years together. Joe was able to save 3 lives by donating his heart, liver, and kidneys. Joe’s husband, Joe’s heart recipient and his family have become family. The heart recipient’s daughter name her son after Joseph as his middle name “because it is the name of the man who gave life to not only my dad, but my entire family.” -
Joseph (Joey) C. Savage, IV, was full of life and energy. He had a joyful, larger than life personality, and he was always doing something fun and active, like shooting hoops, fishing, snowboarding, jet skiing and going to concerts and music festivals. He was also an incredibly skilled union and labor worker in New York City. On October 17, 2017, Joey passed away at the age of 25 after a tragic car accident. Joey was a registered donor, and he saved the lives of four people in need of organs with his heart, kidneys and liver. His corneas gave the gift of sight to two young men and his tissues have enhanced the lives of 126 people. In 2018, Joey’s mother, Heather Prutzman, was diagnosed with Multiple Myeloma. She needed major spine surgery. Thanks to the coordinated efforts of NJ Sharing Network and MTF Biologics, Heather received two of Joey’s donated bone grafts during her spinal fusion surgery. -
Joshua Aaron Bradshaw had a passion for the arts, sports, video games, and superheroes. But his greatest gifts were awarded to his friends for being kind, considerate and generous. His friends would say he was the “glue” that held the group together. His free spirit nature, his love for everything “water”, from the pool, to the ocean, to the shower, and a new found love of Theater were his trademarks. He firmly believed that for all the things that hold you back in life, there is much more pulling you forward. He had a larger than life presence. Through the Gifts of Organ and Tissue donation, Josh continues on as he lived his life - with generosity and kindness. He saved 6 people donating his heart, lungs, liver, and kidneys and many others with his tissue. We know he would be proud to know how far his generosity continues to spread and the impact he continues to make. -
Kaylea Curry was an inquisitive, creative, quirky, honest 10-year-old girl who spoke her mind and inspired her family of seven to walk their own paths and dare to be different. As a sweet, fierce spirit, she wanted to be a warrior like Link, her hero in “The Legend of Zelda”. Kaylea had a medical condition that cut her life short. However, Kaylea’s final quest as the warrior she embodied was the gift of donation. She saved lives through the gift of her kidneys, liver, and heart valves. The sight of two children was also restored with her cornea donation. One recipient wrote, “Believe me: beautiful Kaylea is here. She lives. She is loved. I did not know her, but she is a part of me now. She is, literally … Hope.” The Currys are proud of their daughter, who always lived life out loud, grateful to know that Kaylea’s legacy is the legacy of a true warrior. -
Kevin Ray Johnston, husband, father of five, and a grandfather of two, was loyal to his family, a good listener, and had a great sense of humor. He was a helpful and humble man who appreciated everyone’s opinion, whether he agreed with you, or not. Kevin was musically talented at an early age, and he learned to play the banjo, harp, piano, alto sax, bass guitar and tuba. Kevin worked in several capacities throughout his career, but his favorite job was being a musician. Whether busking, performing in Dixieland, Jazz, or Rock groups, Kevin found great happiness playing and listening to music. Perhaps, the best jams were impromptu concerts with family and friends, strumming on his banjo. Kevin became a donor hero. His corneas were received by two recipients in Texas; he also donated his skin, tendons, and tissue. His generous donations will help others now and in the future as his legacy lives on. -
Leah Wahl was the “kindest person you’ll ever meet”. The youngest family member, Leah was intellectually and artistically gifted. Her empathy made her a trusted friend who constantly uplifted those struggling with depression, anxiety, body dysmorphia, etc. Compassion knew no boundaries with her love of plants and animals, and her support of Faithful Friends’ Animal Society. A Philadelphia Flyers’ fanatic, she loved music, drama, volleyball, creating jewelry, Camp Tockwogh, and spending treasured time with family. Organ donation was a fulfilled wish with the gift of her tissue, heart and her beautiful hair. Leah was taken into God’s hands on April 30, 2021. Soon after, reasons why Leah took her life were uncovered. This was the inspiration for “Leah’s Lessons”, a guide which seeks to break the stigma of mental illness and bring a renewed focus on awareness, education, emotional support, and suicide prevention, leading to new legislation put forth to enhance support for K-12 students. -
Lionel Brazile Jr. was born on February 5, 1960. Lionel was an active child who loved painting, model cars and math. He attended Xavier University of Louisiana. He was a math tutor, an author of two math books, and an artist. He enjoyed spending time with nieces and nephews, and lived life filled with God’s love. On July 13, 1997, at 36 years old, he passed away due to an aneurysm. Lionel’s brother-in-law, Roderick Mcgee Sr. had been on dialysis for five years and waitlisted for a kidney. Lionel had signed up to be an organ donor. Lionel’s sister, Cheryl, asked if her husband, Roderick, could receive one of Lionel’s kidneys. The next morning after dialysis and many tests, Roderick was given the incredible news that it was a match, and the transplant could take place. Roderick received his brother-in-law’s kidney. Four other recipients received Lionel’s organs. Roderick’s life was enhanced, and the family was given the gift of time. -
“It is not just about saving lives; it is also about improving quality of life.” Madelyn (Madie) Nicpon, a tissue recipient and past rider in 2019, will return in 2023, as a floragraph because of her passionate support of donation. Madie earned HERO status by giving many, a second chance at life through donation. “Unapologetically herself”, a loving daughter, sister, and friend; athlete, scholar, dancer, and singer, Maddie valued love, compassion, and service, connecting with people. Becoming a pediatrician, joining her father in practice, having fun and being of service to their community together was her life goal. Madie Nicpon 2-Gether Foundation supports her passionate causes in children’s mission work and inspiring others to donate life. Madie’s legacy will continue her charitable endeavors by honoring her love of people. Madie’s family continues to be inundated with messages showing rainbows visible to those who loved her, reminding them exactly how she embraced life and connected to all. -
Manuela “Nellie” Bolanos born in 1948, was a child of God, filled with His love and compassion. Nellie married Ruben, the love of her life. Her greatest accomplishment was being a wife, mother of 6, and grandmother of 14, teaching them the importance of family and God’s love. Actively participating in their lives brought her joy, and she embraced many different roles and volunteered countless hours assisting with the Girl Scouts and PTA, even serving as PTA president for many years. She worked as a teacher’s aide. Nellie spent 25 years assisting her husband in making beautiful handmade rosaries in which all proceeds benefited the Catholic Church. Surviving breast cancer led her to participate in Relay for Life’s survivor’s lap. Nellie passed away unexpectedly in January 2016. Her most selfless gift was to sign the Advanced Directive the day before she died to become an organ donor, which became a final opportunity to help others. -
Mark was an exceptional young man, loved by his family, friends, and community, accomplishing much in his 18 years. As a 2002 honors graduate of El Dorado High School, he excelled in academics, as well as band, jazz band, theater, and soccer receiving multiple honors and accolades all while working at Noalmark Broadcasting. Mark’s goal was to earn a doctorate in Mechanical Engineering. He had been accepted to Grove City College in Pennsylvania where he planned to begin his studies. Mark had a huge impact on the lives of those around him in his short life, and continues to do so through the memory of his actions in life, and through his gifts of organ, cornea, and tissue donation, as well as organ and tissue research. His community has come together to honor him as they sponsor Mark on the 20th year of his passing as their floragraph honoree. -
McKenzie Leichtnam’s life was filled with friends, vacations, sporting events and an abundance of love. “His laugh was infectious. His jokes were hilarious. His love was once in a lifetime.” McKenzie was born with hypoplastic left heart syndrome, a condition where one side of his heart had not developed properly. A heart transplant was needed, so at just three days old he was placed on the waiting list. Ten days later, he received a donor’s heart. For the next 20 years, McKenzie lived life to the fullest, impacting others. Twice-daily medicines kept his heart strong. McKenzie completed 2 years at Vincennes University and was set to transfer to Indiana University. Sadly, he unexpectedly passed away in his sleep. McKenzie, a transplant recipient, became a tissue donor, changing the lives of others in need. McKenzie’s sister, inspired by his life and selfless decision to become a donor, became a hospital liaison for Indiana Donor Network. -
Micah was always adventurous, selflessly fighting for what he loved. As a Nevada State Police Highway Patrol Trooper, he saw the silver lining in tragedies that occurred through organ donation. Micah was academically top of his class, a role model, and he received several awards throughout his career, including two Medals of Valor. Micah had endless compassion, provided a calm comforting presence, and was a humble man of many talents. Family meant everything to him. As a son, brother, husband to Joanna, and father to Raylan and Melody, he was loved by many. Family recalled his humor, quick playful jabs, relaxed nature and the care he had for those closest to him. He loved Joanna dearly. As a father, Micah was one of the best. His love is felt every single day. Micah donated his heart, liver, and kidneys, impacting forever the lives of those receiving his organs, and the friends and family he left behind. -
Miguel Garcia, affectionally called “Mickey,” was born on March 4, 1993, in Fresno, CA. At an early age, his mother observed delays in development; by age three, Mickey was diagnosed with autism. However, he was never fazed by the struggles he encountered. Mickey never developed his speech, but he had a unique way of connecting to people with his kind, joyous smile. Mickey’s family attempted to provide as much of a normal life as possible; however, fate would decide to make Mickey’s life one to be uniquely remembered. In November of 2020, Mickey arrived at the hospital suffering from cardiac arrest. After his diagnosis of brain death, Mickey became a donor. He donated his organs, tissues, and cornea. His heart, kidneys, liver, and lungs helped save the lives of four people. His tissues and corneas helped heal the lives of several more. -
Morgan Flynn, a Choctaw Tribe member born in Tushka, Okla with Cystic Fibrosis, became a lung transplant recipient at the age of eight. Morgan loved watching her brother’s baseball games. She was a positive, family oriented, loving child known for her infectious giggle. Her love of animals included a mini pig, dog, goats, and a hedgehog. She was also an active member of Future Farmers of America and envisioned her life as a veterinarian. She loved school, insisting on attending despite being ill. Morgan was not defined by her illness, but 5 years later, due to Cystic Fibrosis, she was relisted for transplant, receiving a new set of lungs. Morgan would honor her donors throughout her life by participating in memorial runs and persuaded her family to do the same. She earned her own HERO status by becoming a Cornea and Heart Valve donor, saving others’ lives in the same way that her life was saved. -
Oshiana Unique Thompkins was bold, her energy and personality were magnetic. Passionate about family and friends, her community, and helping others, Oshi lit up any room that she entered. Oshiana was driven and had dreams that were in the works. She started her own beauty line and wanted to give back to her community. Unfortunately, the opportunity to live life and accomplish her goals and be the change she wanted to see in the world was taken from her on November 1, 2019, due to gun violence. Oshiana was able to give the gift of life to 4 individuals. Oshiana’s mom, Sparkle, blessed to continue her daughter’s legacy, went after the very goals she wished to achieve. The Oshiana Unique Thompkins Foundation and Reach OUT Mode was created for the community of the East Bay area in California, providing resources for at-risk youth and underserved families, to enhance their health, help end hunger, and overcome hardships. -
Ricardo “Ricky” Moses Hurwitz was an active, loving young man, living life to the fullest for his 18 years. He graduated high school and was looking forward to becoming a nurse. He was a gifted athlete, artist, dancer, and an animal whisperer. Ricky was fearless and talented. He was an old soul with a deep relationship with God. Ricky’s family said, “His greatest quality though was that he saw people’s soul, not their physical being and made this world a better place.” Everyone loved Ricky. He passionately lived every day as if it were his last. He lived more in his short life than many live in their lifetime. On the horrific night of the automobile accident, Ricky’s Mother remembered a conversation when Ricky asked her about donation. Ricky donated 7 organs to save the lives of 5 people and improved the lives of 22 through tissue and cornea donation. -
San Diego Fire-Rescue Captain Robin Cervantes was a hero in life and in death. A proud father of seven girls, he taught his children the importance of “family first.” He was charming, funny and absolutely fearless. As a member of the San Diego Fire-Rescue Department’s Hazardous Materials Incident Response Team (HIRT) – a highly trained group of firefighters — he raced into burning buildings and mitigated dangerous chemical spills. Capt. Cervantes was a driven person, yet he appreciated the simple things in life. His random acts of kindness were legendary, such as helping stranded motorists or giving shoes to the homeless. Tragically, he passed away in 2019 after suffering a fatal brain bleed. Capt. Cervantes saved four lives through the miracle of organ donation; the medical team at Lifesharing found matching recipients for his liver, kidneys and loving heart. He also donated his tissues. Right before his organs were recovered, his firefighting comrades lined the hall of the hospital to honor his legacy. It was the first ever “Honor Walk” held at UC San Diego Health. -
Rylan and Landon, part of a set of triplets, were 17-year-old best friends, book-reading and anime-watching homebodies. Landon was on top of his class, dreaming of becoming a history teacher. Rylan had a passion for fitness and carried his sense of humor everywhere. To know Landon was to know kindness and peace. To know Rylan was to know honesty and virtue. “We couldn’t have imagined having better sons.” Mark and Thea, the brothers’ parents, remember the car accident as if it happened yesterday. Their family was traveling together for a trip in March 2020. The crash took the lives of Rylan and Landon and etched the most painful and unforgettable memory into the hearts of their family. Rylan was a registered donor, and he saved five people with his organs, and enhanced many others through tissue donation. Landon was also a registered donor, and his intent to donate will also be honored on the Donate Life float. -
Rylee Marie Jackson, born on July 15, 2018, was a true gift. Rylee’s young brothers could not get enough of her, as they proudly took turns playing with her, admiring her, and talking to her. Rylee’s eyes lit up with joy and wonder with her brothers’ attention. In October 2018, Rylee got sick. While at the hospital, a nurse told the family that Rylee means courageous, so they began calling her their courageous miracle. When the family was told that Rylee was brain dead, Rylee became a courageous miracle for others. Donating her heart, liver, and kidneys gave three other families hope. While they asked about organ donation to save others from the grief they felt, it turns out donation helped save them as well. The family is honored that Rylee will be highlighted on the Donate Life float and hope her story will encourage others to consider organ donation. -
Tamara Jean Miller-McKeown made the world a better place with her signature sense of humor and quick wit; only to be outshined by her infectious smile and beautiful heart. This Bakersfield native loved to travel, always making plans for the next adventure. She was a dedicated blood donor, active church member, and community volunteer, participating in the annual Walks to End Alzheimer’s and to Find a Cure for Multiple Sclerosis; two organizations that were very personal to her. Tammy died from a blood clot on December 20, 2020, at the age of 47. Tammy gave her family the comfort of making her final wishes known by choosing the pink dot on her driver’s license. Tammy served others throughout her life by giving of herself. Christmas Eve 2020 was no different -- she did just that. She gave three families a precious gift… the gift of life: her heart, liver and both kidneys. -
Tanner Denton danced to the beat of his own drum with a true zest for life. Best known as a baseball player, family and friends remember his passionate advocacy, laughter, and his tremendously big heart. An avid fan of Colorado sports teams, Tanner enjoyed spending time with loved ones, traveling and attending concerts. He advocated and cared for the homeless and had a soft spot in his heart for animals. Tanner was just 23 when he passed away in a tragic accident. As a passionate advocate for organ, eye and tissue donation, Tanner was a registered donor. He saved the lives of two people who received his kidneys, his corneas restored the sight of a woman in Ireland, and his tissue enabled a young man to play baseball again. Knowing the impact of Tanner’s gifts of life gives his family strength. His legacy is a bright spot through their darkest of days. -
A hero in life, Tyler James Edenhofer was a kind, caring young man. “He always lit up a room and affected so many people,” says his mother, “even ones he never met when he passed.” Arizona Public Safety Trooper Edenhofer responded to 911 calls. Drivers stated rocks had been thrown at their cars while they were driving. That night Tyler was shot and killed in the line of duty. The 24 year old hero was in his final day of field training as a trooper and engaged to be married. He loved family, friends, and his dogs. Tyler loved fixing up cars, especially Mustangs. He always had a desire to help his community as a Navy veteran, trooper, and later on as an organ, eye and tissue donor. Two women regained their vision through Tyler’s cornea donation, and his tissue helped enhance 20 people’s lives. “Gone way too soon, he had so much more to give.“ -
Tyler J Rodimer’s, favorite quote, “ You can find me on the river or in the woods,” spoke volumes for this forever 23, fun loving, friend and family oriented young man. He achieved the rank of Eagle Scout, and his passion was fly fishing. An honor graduate from East Stroudsburg University with a degree in Criminal Justice, his passion remained the great outdoors. As a teen, he had signed up for organ donation. In 2019 Tyler suffered a Traumatic Brain Injury. Two months later, multiple surgeries, and agonizing consultations with doctors, clergy, and family, led to the decision to choose his final act of grace and kindness. Tyler saved three lives gifting his liver and kidneys, 16 lives through tissue donation and two people with his heart valves. “Tyler’s Tight Lines” supports the NJ Sharing Network’s 5K. Tyler’s infectious smiles and bear hugs are missed forever but his spirit and legacy will never die! -
Zachary Mendoza had many interests and passions, but his family topped the list. He befriended all, focusing on their lives, putting others first. He worked diligently as a server at a popular theater and at a restaurant. Customers and coworkers loved him. One manager called Zach the “heart and soul” of the workplace. The love for his family was deep. He looked forward to all family events, cherishing each moment. When he got his first driver’s license, he immediately indicated that he wanted to be a donor. He had seen everything his aunt, with lupus, endured while on dialysis, as she waited for a kidney transplant. Zach was in the hospital with a heart-related illness before passing on April 20, 2019. His organs helped four people, including a North Dakota man. The two families have become close. Zach passed away on Easter weekend in 2019. Almost a year later, Zach’s aunt received a lifesaving kidney transplant and she’s doing well today.