“Herman was a husband for 51 years, a father to our daughter Wendy but his blessing from God was that 30 years ago he received a heart transplant here in Austin thru Seton Heart Transplant Program. After receiving the transplant, he donated his heart valves.Read More
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This is the category for the tribute stories that will be shared on the success stories page.
Donor Family Story: Jared Butler
Donor Family Story: Dylan Charles Stone
Dylan Charles Stone easily won the hearts of nearly everyone he met. He had a warm demeanor and a friendly vibe that made others happy to help him out anytime he asked. His family and his friends had his unwavering devotion. He was entertaining and funny and one of the most approachable people you could ever meet. He especially loved spending time with his loved ones. His quick wit, happy-go-lucky attitude, and infectious grin made everyone he connected with feel better and his family absolutely adored him for it.
He was a huge sports fan and a die-hard supporter of the Washington Capitals, and the Florida State Seminoles, and he never wavered in his allegiance to his hometown NFL team, the Washington whatever they’re called these days. He developed a lifelong passion for and expertise in constructing and collecting intricate lego sets, especially anything Star Wars related. He was a creative chef who approached food with the same whimsey and fun as he did most things in life. He was a major movie buff who never missed the opportunity to catch the latest horror flick or hilarious comedy film and could often be heard laughing out loud to himself while binge-watching shows like Sponge Bob, The Family Guy, or Bob’s Burgers on Comedy Central. One of his favorite past-times was listening to music. Dylan’s interests ranged from Mac Miller to Chicago to Cage the Elephant and over time he developed an impressive knowledge base of songs and artists from almost every genre.
Born with a fighter’s spirit and the soul of a champion, Dylan always found a way to make the most out of difficult situations. Despite all the health issues he faced throughout his precious 28 years, he always looked on the bright side of life and he never let go of his “get knocked down 7 times, get back up 8” mentality. This was most recently evident last month when he proudly celebrated over 500 days of sobriety. Dylan’s most courageous and selfless gesture was his priceless gift of organ donation. He donated 6 of his major organs, saving the lives of 4 individuals that will have a long-lasting impact on those families for generations to come. He leaves behind a beautiful legacy.
Donor Family Story: Larry Robertson
On March 4th at 11:00 pm Larry was experiencing chest discomfort and sweating. EMS was called and he was taken to the emergency room. At 1:30 it was decided he needed to have a cardiac catherization and at 3:30 am he was pronounced death during the procedure. Prior to 11:00 we had been to Pizza Hut and watched the Duke and Carolina game. All seemed to be well. His death was totally a surprise.
On the way home I was called concerning donation. I have been a registered nurse for 52 years and always encouraged organ donation so this was not a choice. I was thankful that something good would be coming from his sudden death. At 1:00 pm the called came concerning the donation with added information. It was a positive experience and thankful I was contacted.
Larry was a master carpenter. He made beautiful jewelry boxes, clocks, bowels, vases etc. He never sold them but gave them away to family members. He had little patience for somethings but when he had a piece of wood in his hands he could sand and cut for hours. At church he was there 45min before service started. Making sure lights were on, heat and air was good and greeted people as they entered. His wit and ability to relate to anyone is the thing I miss the most.
Donor Story: “That was Russell. He always wanted to help people.”
Saturday, May 7, marks exactly five years since a remarkable young man passed away. Russell Beasley battled a rare genetic illness until his death at just 20 years of age. However, his kindness, selflessness, and desire to help others continues to make an immeasurable difference in people’s lives every day.
For those who knew him, the memories of an outgoing, good, generous and kind person are still very much alive. “He never met a stranger — even as a little boy,” says his mother, Sherri Dalton. “He was funny and liked joking around. He was quick witted and even a little mischievous. But he cared about everyone.”Read More
Donor Family Story: Nancy Minger
My mom passed away on 12/2/2023 and she donated her eyes to your organization. I just wanted to share some things about her. She was 67 years old from Blythewood SC. My mom was so very tough. She was the CEO of our entire family. She had 2 children, me and my brother. But she raised my 2 cousins and was raising my oldest nephew. Mom went on disability in 2008 due to her declining eyesight. She worked food service for years and really loved people. She was one of the most social and caring people on this side of heaven. She had diabetic retinopathy and so desperately wanted to regain her vision. I pray that her donation is able to help advance science or another persons life that is dealing with blindness. She was the best mom and example of a woman. I miss her so much. Thank you for letting me share some things about her.