Jacquez Welch

Type of Donation:          organs and tissue

Age and Location:          Age 18 – St. Petersburg, FL

Donation Date:             9/24/2019

Sponsor:                   Honored by LifeLink Foundation

JACQUEZ’S STORY

As the eldest of five children, Jacquez was a role model for his younger siblings. Marcia, Jacquez’s mom, described him as the peacemaker of the family who always had a smile on his face. He began playing football at age 13 and continued to do so as a student in high school, becoming a varsity middle linebacker and team captain. Jacquez had only recently 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 had registered as an organ and tissue donor when he obtained 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. Sponsored by LifeLink Foundation.