Donor Hero

Michael Davis was a 19-year-old college sophomore, with plans of attending law school and becoming an attorney. Whether you had known him all his life, or just a few minutes, you loved him. He had that kind of personality. He was kind, loving, generous, free-spirited and always the life of the party. Michael lived life to the fullest: he knew that life was not endless, he knew life was a gift and that every moment was to be treasured.

On December 24, 2015, Michael was critically injured when a careless driver plowed into the vehicle he was riding in. Michael bore the brunt of the impact, and suffered a traumatic brain injury. Despite prayers for a Christmas miracle, Michael did not survive.

When Michael got his driver’s license at age 16, he registered as an organ donor in honor of his father, who died when Michael was 9 years old: his life could have been saved by a liver transplant. Michael was a big believer in second chances, so it is fitting that he would be the one to give a second chance at life to five individuals.

Michael was my only child, and I miss him more than I can ever describe in words. However, as a grieving parent, it has brought me a sense of comfort to know that Michael made a difference to the five people who received his generous gift. Because he was an organ donor, Michael’s beautiful spirit lives on. And that is a blessing I will always be grateful for.

- Vivan Figueras Davis (Donor Mother)