02/11/2026
"I never would have imagined that my 77-year-old mother would be a candidate for donation - especially for her eyes as she had worn glasses since she was 3 years old. She was a nurse so I was thrilled to think she could continue to help others even if she wasn’t with us anymore.
She was a great mom who taught me a very strong work ethic. She dedicated her life to being a nurse and helping others. Her family meant everything to her. She met my dad when she was 5 years old and they grew up together. They were so in love, and I can honestly say we were a very happy family. My mom loved the mountains of Colorado and never got tired of the views or the wildlife.
My mom never mentioned being an organ donor, probably because she never realized that she could be at her age. I was very surprised to learn it was an option, and being a registered donor myself, I thought, 'I need to do this.' I’m so glad I got the phone call, despite the terrible circumstances. It means everything to me that she can still help people despite not being here anymore."
Joy, the daughter of Rosemary, an eye tissue donor, recently shared her joy with us, expressing how her mother's gift of sight has brought healing to their family.