2017 Joshua David Braswell

01_joshua-david-braswell_alabama-organ-centerJOSHUA DAVID BRASWELL

Organ Donor

Age 23 ~ Mobile, AL

Donated on 6/27/2003

at USA Medical Center

Honored by alabamaorgancenter.org

Joshua David Braswell had a generous spirit and warm smile that brought out the best in everyone. Josh loved football and played from the ages of 7 to 18. His enthusiasm and passion on the football field extended to helping others in the medical field. As a decorated nursing graduate, while saving lives as an EMT at the Mobile Infirmary Hospital, Josh provided light in the darkest of places. His generosity continued as an organ donor, saving 5 more lives after his fatal automotive accident in June 2003. Joshua’s family was able to meet his organ recipients and hear Josh’s heart beat again.

Joshua’s Story

Joshua David Braswell was a handsome young man that brought out the best in those with whom he came into contact. Josh loved the sport of football and played from the age of 7 until age 18, his senior year. After high school, Josh enrolled at the University of South Alabama and earned his certification as an Emergency Medical Technician. Josh went on to further his medical career by working part time at Mobile Infirmary Hospital and attending nursing school where he was presented with various awards at graduation. It was during this time period in his life that he informed his parents of his decision to become an organ donor. Blessed with a spirit as bright as his ever present smile, Josh was always generous until his last day on earth.

In June 2003, Josh sustained injuries in an automobile accident that left his parents with a heart wrenching decision; a decision that would affect the lives of 5 other individuals. The sudden loss left the family in so many pieces, it was uncertain if the puzzle could ever be complete again.

Within a few weeks, a letter arrived with news about the lives Josh was able to save. Joshua’s right kidney was transplanted into a 34-year-old male and the left kidney was transplanted into a 65-year-old male. These recipients were both suffering from end-stage kidney disease. Joshua’s liver was transplanted into a 45-year-old male. Both lungs were transplanted into a 29-year-old male. His pancreas was transplanted into a 34-year-old male. Joshua’s heart was transplanted into a 51-year-old male. Since that fatal day, the family was able to meet with a few of the organ recipients and even hear Josh’s heart beat again. Knowing Josh’s final gift to this world was to give life to others is proof that there is light to be found even in the darkest of times.