2019 Courtney Harris

Name:                                     Courtney Harris

Type of Donation:             Organ, tissue and Cornea Donor

Age and Location:             Age 26 – Birmingham, AL

Donation Date:                   11/10/2015

Sponsor:                                Honored by Alabama Organ Center

COURTNEY’S STORY

Courtney Haynes Harris was a miracle from God, and she provided a miracle for so many when she was called home to heaven on November 8, 2015. If you knew Courtney, you knew and loved her smile. She was so happy, and always shared her love for others with a hug and an “I Love You.”

Courtney and her twin brother were born three months premature on May 2, 1989 in Birmingham, AL. Courtney was born with hydrocephalus (fluid in the brain) and had multiple surgeries, including the installation of a permanent shunt during her first weeks in NICU.

Courtney lived a wonderful and blessed life, facing and overcoming many challenges related to hydrocephalus. She graduated from high school and attended college. She loved watching television, connecting to her friends and family on Facebook, country music, and Alabama football!

Courtney married Allen Harris on August 3, 2012. They enjoyed three wonderful years of marriage in Atoka TN, where Allen was stationed as active-duty Navy. Courtney was a very proud military wife. Courtney decided to be an organ donor when she received her first AL driver’s license. As a result of her decision to be a donor, over 100 people benefited from her gifts, including five organ recipients and 2 cornea recipients.

Courtney’s heart and both lungs were donated to 14-year old Angelynn Luckado, from nearby Munford AL. Their story was highlighted on NBC’s “Today Show,” and Angelynn’s fellow students and the faculty at Munford Middle School partnered with the Alabama Organ Center and AL Rep. Steve Hurst to pass AL HB-411, which changed the name of “The Uniform Anatomical Gift Act” to “Angelynn and Courtney’s Law.” This law has helped personalize organ donation throughout the State of Alabama and beyond.

Courtney’s decision to be an organ donor has dramatically changed many lives, and certainly the lives of her family and friends. Her family has seen firsthand the benefits and blessings associated with organ donation. Courtney’s family has been very fortunate to meet two organ recipients and their families, and they pray that every person who has received Courtney’s gifts is experiencing a new life, a better life, and a better day, every day.