Austin Cross

Austin Cross was the type of person who would do anything to make people laugh and was always willing to help if he could. He loved Captain America and gaming.

When a car accident cut 22-year-old Austin’s life short, his family learned of his wish to become an organ, eye and tissue donor. Knowing how kind her son was, Austin’s mother, Stacy Garcia, was very supportive of his registered donor status. Furthermore, supporting her son as he saved lives through organ donation drove Stacy to change her mind about her own donation wishes.

“I was not a donor,” she said. “I always thought, I’m going to go out with what I came in with. But to know that Austin saved four people’s lives — I actually became a donor myself. It’s a true blessing.”

Recently, Stacy heard from Austin’s heart recipient for the first time.

“I can’t wait to actually hear my son’s heart beat again,” she said.

Austin’s generosity moved his whole family, including his father, Francis Cross.

“If anyone in my family was ever in need, hopefully there’s somebody as gracious as Austin there for them,” Francis said.