The Ultimate Valentine's Day Gift

Around this time last year, there was snow on the ground. Melissa was enjoying the beautiful day, playing and having fun with her family and friends. She struggled with asthma for most of her life, and on this night, she had a severe asthma attack. She lost consciousness, and fell into a coma for five days. During her week in intensive care, her family learned that Melissa was a registered donor. Melissa died on February 14, 2014, Valentine’s Day, and was able to donate her heart, liver, kidneys and corneas.

Melissa’s mom, Cheryl, had hoped to meet her daughter’s recipients one day. In May, on Memorial Day, her prayer was answered – she met Melissa’s liver recipient, Mark. Cheryl and her family have become very close with Mark and his family. But they also hoped to meet Melissa’s other recipients one day. Early this past summer, Mark and Cheryl spoke at the OHSU Transplant Picnic. They spoke about their story and struggles, and the beautiful gift that her daughter was able give to so many. Little did they know that another of Melissa’s recipients was sitting in the audience listening to them speak -- Melissa’s heart recipient, Connie.

That day, Cheryl was able to meet her daughter’s heart recipient and listen to Melissa’s heart beating.

Many people think of Valentine’s Day as a commercial holiday with candy and treats. But Melissa, her family, and her recipient families remind us that Valentine’s Day is about love in all its forms. We celebrate Valentine’s Day by honoring all the people who have been touched by donation, through struggles, triumphs, and love.

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