We honor our quilt participants. . .
As we enter the final week of National Donate Life Month, we would like to thank all of the donor families and transplant recipients who have shared their story with the community. Their strength, honesty and openness helps start the miracle and spreads the gift of life to others.
Below are two submissions for the Threads of Life quilt that Donate Life Northwest displayed throughout the region. One is from the giving mother of an organ donor and the second is from a grateful recipient. Please read their stories from their own words:
Submitted by: Dotty Pantle, mother
In Memory of: Paul Pantle
September 18, 1971 – May 22, 2007
Organ and Eye Donor
The Donor Program has given us more than I ever could have thought. Paul saved four lives through organ donation and gave two people sight. I have communicated with three of his recipients and can only imagine that being given a second chance at life is a gift beyond expression. I wish only the best for those Paul’s life has touched – so many in so many ways…
When Paul entered a room, you did not need to see him to know he was there. His laughter preceded him, and he always wanted everyone to be having a good time. He had a deep passion for life. Paul’s desire to be a good father was at the center of his life. His soul mate and wife Dawn completed him and he loved his children also. Family reunions, karaoke, Halloween, ATV’s and just having fun were some of the things that gave him so much pleasure.
If Paul called you friend, he would be there for you and do what he could to help.
The flame is gone but we cherish the light and joy of Paul’s memory and see him in all five of his children. Often I still find myself thinking of something I want to tell him only to realize I can’t. We will never forget.
Donor or recipient, reach out and tell your story. It helps with the healing. Others are blessed by each one. This way the gift is paid forward endlessly.
Designed and Submitted by: Signe Wallis, Kidney Recipient
In Memory of: Her Anonymous Donor
I am a 67 year old great-grandma from Portland, Oregon. To my great surprise, I received my kidney September 4, 2009. Because I have many antibodies in my blood, I wasn’t hopeful. The kidney is a “perfect” match, and I feel like I’m 40 years old.
I made my quilt square to honor my anonymous donor. I chose the Ohio Star pattern because my kidney came from Cincinnati, Ohio. The material reminds me of fireworks and celebration, and, boy, do I have a lot to celebrate! Last, and most important, the heart in the middle represents my generous donor and family. I am so grateful to this person, and wanted to honor them in some way. I appreciate this opportunity to do so.
Once again, we thank and honor these special people who gave so much of themselves to save another life. What they did was amazing and beyond generous and kind. They started a miracle.
