Live On: John’s Story

After 12 years of health issues, John received the call from the U of MN transplant coordinator, saying that they had found a perfect match for John, and asked “Do you want this heart?” John accepted, and he became the hospital’s #895 heart transplant recipient on July 23, 2017. Because of one family’s selfless, generous decision to say “yes” to donation in a time of great sorrow, John has lived five more years (and counting!). 

Shortly following his successful transplant, John wrote several letters to his donor’s family – expressing his gratitude. Because of their loved one’s generosity, John extends his donor’s legacy and pays it forward by helping his community; offering encouragement for others who are waiting for a heart transplant; and inspiring others to check the donor box. 

Nearly two years after John’s transplant, the two families arranged to meet in person, and have since formed a strong connection with one another.