My mom, a hero!
Mom suffered from chronic heart disease for the last 16 years of her life and it limited her to enjoy life before and after retirement. Mom was always a giver even though she struggled to provide for her own 3 little ones, she called us her ladybugs. She would hand over what she had to help make anyone’s life a little less worrisome.
With me being in the medical field she would always talk to me about the donation of life, and I knew how important it was to her, and I promised to make her wishes known.
Towards the end of mom’s time here on earth she had quite a few cardiac episodes, but we never expected to lose her that day! On June 5th, 2021, she was home preparing for a brunch with the girls she used to work with and next thing you know dad is calling 911, preforming CPR, and calling us kids to tell us the squad was taking mom to the hospital.
That day sitting in the “family room” at the hospital, it was just dad and I at that time and I heard a melody overhead, the music they play when a baby is born. I looked at dad and at that moment I knew we lost mom. The Dr. explained that mom had a sudden cardiac arrest and that it was quick AND she didn’t suffer. The family gathered around her bedside for hours to say their goodbyes.
Hours after we got home dad got a call and it was a representative from Lifeline of Ohio. Dad also knew mom was a donor but was so upset he couldn’t take the call, so I did.
The person on the other end was very passionate and explained to me that mom was able to donate her corneas, and mine filled up with tears. As much pain as I was going through because I just had my best friend pulled from me ,I knew in my heart this made momma’s tired heart smile.
I knew her cause of death would limit her ability to donate major organs BUT being able to provide someone with one of the best gifts in life, seeing, is extraordinary.
I now had to explain to my 2 adult sisters about the call—the why and how. It was not an easy thing to do but I got through it, more tears fell and both left mom and dad’s house even more upset.
We didn’t speak of it again for many many months, but in due time I was able to help them understand what mom has given to someone else. She gave while she was here with us and even after she left us.
About 4 months after mom passed, I was researching online about Lifeline of Ohio and let me tell you, the stories are so impactful. I came across the “Get Involved” Volunteer link, so I clicked on it and it’s all history from there!
The annual Dash for Donation is just around the corner!
On Saturday, July 12th, I will walk with thousands of others through downtown Columbus to raise awareness for organ, eye and tissue donation. The Dash is raising funds to benefit Lifeline of Ohio’s programs and all contributions will celebrate the ripple effect each can make through organ, eye and tissue donation. Please consider helping us by making a financial contribution (large or small) to my walk. Every dollar makes a difference!
Thank you for joining me as we “Dash” for Donation!
