Drake Ruiz

Type of Donation:       Tissues and Corneas

Age and Location:      Age 16 – Corona, CA

Date of Donation:           01/19/2020

Sponsor:                      Honored by OneLegacy

DRAKE’S STORY

In January 2020, Drake was in a criminal hit and run road rage car accident. He and two of his best friends, all 16, were killed almost immediately. It was devastating to our family and so many of his friends who never thought his life would be taken from us so young.

The greatest long-lasting positive outcome from his death was from the phone call his family received that night from OneLegacy, asking if he could be a donor. They immediately said yes and didn't even ask about the details. Since his death, 2 beautiful letters have shown up to their home, explaining how Drake's donation of cartilage or bone have helped the recipients enjoy life in a much better way since his donation. His corneas were also donated - one to research and another to restore someone's sight in Egypt! How awesome is that? There has been a total of 17 tissue grafts successfully transplanted. It's such a wonderful feeling to know that he lives on in a lot of other people's bodies. What a wonderful program OneLegacy is.

Drake was a football player in high school and had many friends who claimed him as their best friend. He showed love to everyone and made his loved ones all say "I love you" at the end of phone conversations and always loved giving hugs. He would be so proud knowing that he was able to help improve the lives of others after his own passing. His family feels blessed to have received that phone call.