Wyatt Owens

Wyatt’s mom, Amari, remembers how compassionate and giving her son was. He was sweet and loved to help people, even when it wasn’t very convenient for him. She recalls one snowy day when Wyatt’s sister’s car wasn’t working. The teenager could have decided to stay inside where it was dry and warm, or he could have decided to go play in the snow. But instead, he decided he wanted his sister to be safe. With his tools and lamps in hand, he faced the wet and cold to make his sister’s car safe for her. That was just the way Wyatt was – he took care of his family and really, anyone who needed help.

Certainly, when Wyatt got his license and made the decision to register as an organ, eye, and tissue donor, he had no idea that he would pass away so young. But his family had always talked about donation, and so he didn’t hesitate to register. Amari remembers, “Our family talked about how blessed we were to lead healthy lives and that if we were ever to perish, we would want to donate our organs to those who need them.”

Wyatt was still a young man when his life tragically ended. He was balancing a part-time job and going to school, being a loving son, brother, and friend. When the hospital confirmed that he wouldn't survive his injuries, his family immediately understood and honored his wishes. Wyatt became an organ, eye, and tissue donor, providing others with the chance to live through the gift of his heart, liver, lungs, kidneys, corneas, and tissues.

Wyatt’s family finds solace and hope knowing he was able to give the gifts of life, sight, and mobility. Amari shares, “His heart still beats, his lungs still breathe. His eyes still see. He is not gone. Today, I imagine his life through his recipients.”

One of the legacies that Wyatt left is that his story encourages others to give the gifts of life and health that he gave. Amari explains how she’s heard others express the fear that if they go to the emergency room, being a registered donor might prevent them from receiving lifesaving care. But she knows from experience that this isn’t true. Wyatt was a donor, yet he received excellent care, and donation wasn’t considered until after it was very clear that Wyatt wouldn’t survive his injuries. By telling his story, Amari can help others get past their fear and make the decision to donate.

Wyatt was a loving and selfless individual in life and continues to embody those qualities even in death. As Amari beautifully summarizes, “Wyatt believed we were meant to live our lives to the fullest. I believe he would be incredibly proud to know that he has given the precious gift of life to others.”