Donor Stories

The gift of life through organ, eye and tissue donation has a lasting impact on donor families, recipients, recipient families and living donors. Read inspirational stories from families whose loved ones impacted the lives of transplant recipients through the generous gift of donation.

Rickey Rayford

With his love for life and infectious smile, Rickey captured the hearts of everyone who knew him. After his sudden loss, a beam of hope shined through with Rickey’s ability to save and enhance the lives of others.

Rickey was known for his life-loving attitude and infectious smile. He loved music, the outdoors, and spending time with close friends and family. He would give not only the shirt off his back, but also his pants and socks to help someone — so it was no surprise when he made the decision to register as an organ, tissue and eye donor.

Mike Smoker

Mike’s wife had no idea he had registered as an organ, eye and tissue donor, but after he suffered an aneurysm, she became deeply grateful for his decision and for the support she has received from other donor families.

Juliane Smoker summed it up well: “Organ donation is a tragically beautiful thing.” When her husband, Mike, was in the hospital after suffering an aneurysm, she learned he had registered as an organ, eye and tissue donor.

Leo Woodruff

Leo’s aunt, who has her own personal experience with organ donation, says she feels better knowing that through Leo’s donation, someone is getting years back in their life to spend with people they love.

Julianna Armato feels a special connection to organ donation. Several years ago, she donated one of her kidneys to her mother, who enjoyed many more years with her family as a result. More recently, Julianna lost her nephew Leo when he was just 17 years old. Although that has been painful and difficult, she is proud of her sister’s decision to donate Leo’s organs.

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Read about recipients and the impact their donors made, or tell us about your own personal experience with organ donation.

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