"Our family has been deeply impacted by organ and tissue donation. We have close friends who have received kidney, liver and heart donations improving and prolonging their lives. As a donor family we find comfort in the lives our daughter touched after her death. When our daughter Micaela obtained her license she indicated organ donor. We were proud of her for making this decision but didn’t realize we would be honoring her wishes so soon. We were completely blindsided on 11/14/16 when our vibrant, funny and unselfishly giving 16-year-old took her own life. Devastated, broken and grieving we struggled to make sense of our loss. We have found ways to honor our beloved Micaela’s life. Raising suicide awareness and holding an annual blood drive in her memory. Awarding three college scholarships in her name. Honoring her wishes to be an organ and tissue donor. We have found comfort in our grieving thinking about the lives she has helped.
As a volunteer for Iowa Donor Network I have learned so much. I can now confidently encourage others to consider organ and tissue donation. Sharing what I know and dispelling myths like “I’m too old to donate.” Many people don’t realize you can donate bone, skin and corneas and more. I’m excited and humbled to be a part of the work Iowa Donor Network does.
Iowa Donor Network has helped us continue Micaela’s legacy of love and helping others long after her passing. What a beautiful way to honor a life so loved and deeply missed."
-- Alma and Brian Brunson, Donor Parents