2017 Jared Macias

JARED MACIAS

Organ Donor

Age 11 ~ Wichita Falls, TX

Donated on 7/8/2013

at United Regional Healthcare System

Honored by organ.org

Jared was known as a true cowboy with a big heart and he was loved by everyone who knew him. Jared’s favorite past time was horseback riding on his horse, Amarillo. He also loved rodeos, fishing with his father and brother, and digging up “treasures” in the back pasture. Little did his family know that at the age of 11, this cowboy would inspire the community and show true love to individuals he would never meet. The day that forever changed his family’s lives was his passing on July 5, 2013. Jared’s parents made the selfless decision to say yes to organ donation, giving four people the gift of life by donating his heart, lungs and both kidneys. Jared is remembered each year by the Jared Macias Memorial Bronc ride, with the proceeds going to local charities.

Jared’s Story

Jared was born on October 21, 2001 in Wichita Falls, Texas. He attended Bradford Elementary School in Iowa Park. Jared’s favorite past time was horseback riding on his horse, Amarillo. He also loved rodeos, fishing with his father and brother, and digging up “treasures” in the back pasture.

Jared was known as a true cowboy with a big heart and he was loved by everyone who knew him. Little did his family know that at the age of 11, this cowboy would inspire the community and show true love to individuals he would never meet. The day that forever changed his family’s lives was July 5, 2013.

Jared was riding Amarillo on the side of the road with his young friend Destiny. They were struck by a man driving a truck. The horse was killed instantly, and Jared suffered a traumatic brain injury and multiple broken bones. Destiny suffered a head injury and broken bones yet made a full recovery. Jared’s parents made the selfless decision to say yes to organ donation, giving four people the gift of life by donating his heart, lungs and both kidneys.

Jared’s parents have reached out to all the recipients and have been able to meet the left kidney recipient. They have a wonderful friendship with her and her family. Jared’s parents say they know in their hearts it was the right decision and donation has truly helped them gain closure. The decision to donate made a positive impact on their lives and the lives of their family members. They hope someday to meet the other recipients.

Jared is remembered each year by the Jared Macias Memorial Bronc ride at Clay County Rodeo Grounds, with the proceeds going to various local charities. His parents volunteer their time with Southwest Transplant Alliance by speaking about Jared’s life-saving story and by sharing the importance of registering as an organ, eye and tissue donor.