I bring a unique perspective for organ donation. I not one of the lucky ones who’s family rejoiced by receiving a life-saving transplant. Nor was a family member able to save someone else’s life. My brother, Nick passed away while waiting for transplant. He was only 35 years old. We made a promise to him that if he was unable to receive the gift of life that we must continue to push organ donation so maybe it would help others. And that is just what we are doing. In the three years since is passing (Feb 10th, 2014) we have started an annual tradition of the Nick Owens Christmas Giveaway. We raise money throughout the year and then we go to UK Hospital on Christmas Day and give it away to people staying in the hospital on Christmas. We share Nick’s story and strive to bring hope to those in the hospital on this glorious day. A couple of friends and I also made a cross-country journey last May to spread the word about organ donation. Nick had always wanted to drive to Las Vegas (his favorite city) but was unable to. So last year we drove in his honor. We would hand out Donate Life bracelets along way and would share Nick’s story. We also got to speak at the Nevada Donor Network meeting and there was a horse race named in his honor at Los Alamitos Race Course, near Los Angeles. We called this trip “Ridin’ the ORGAN trail for Nick Owens.” Another trip is in the works for this August. Nick was an avid fan of horse racing. My friend Cameron and I are going to attempt going to nine different race track in nine days to honor Nick. Nick was my best friend and this is a difficult time for me and my family as his passing date is approaching as I’m writing this. Speaking out for organ donation is very therapeutic for me. If I’m able to help save one life I feel very grateful. If I could help save many it would be a blessing to me and my family. I know Nick is smiling down upon us from Heaven. As he kept telling us “souls go to heaven, organs don’t” Please feel free to follow our journeys on our Facebook page, Ridin’ the ORGAN trail for Nick Owens.” Thank you for reading and God bless.
Donate Life KYKentuckyNonprofit501c3https://www.donatelifeky.org/502-581-9511Main OfficeLouisville, KYUnited States4022310301 Linn Station Rdhttps://www.donatelifeky.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/donatelifeky-logo-with-icon.svgFrom hospital partners to community members, Donate Life KY works to honor the gift of organ donation. We provide education, coordinate recoveries, and support families with dedication, accountability, and compassion.https://www.facebook.com/DonateLifeKY/https://www.instagram.com/donatelife.ky/https://www.youtube.com/@DonateLifeKY