Anna

Anna of Littleton, Colo., carries her husband Mike’s legacy of selflessness and love in her heart every day. Their story is one of faith, family, and the lasting impact of organ and tissue donation.

Mike was a registered organ, eye, and tissue donor whose generous spirit continues to inspire others in their community. Anna met Mike during her senior year of high school, and it was clear from the beginning that his life revolved around his family and faith.

In November 2021, Mike was diagnosed with a rare autoimmune disease called pemphigus vulgaris. The journey to remission included grueling treatments that took a toll on his body. Yet, even in the face of adversity, Mike created precious memories with his loved ones. He played softball with his son, watched his daughter graduate from college, enjoyed a family cruise, and celebrated life with those who mattered most.

Mike passed away unexpectedly in 2022 after a heart attack. Although his organs could not be donated due to his medical history, his lifesaving and healing tissue gifts left an indelible mark on lives across the globe. His cornea traveled as far as Ireland, where it gave someone the precious gift of sight—a testament to the power of real-life organ donor stories.

“I sometimes think, ‘There’s someone out there who was given a gift because of him.’ His eyes are out there somewhere,” said Anna. “It’s a really comforting thought. I think of those people, whether I know them or not, that have a piece of him and how he has made their life better.”

Anna and her family are now passionate advocates for organ, eye, and tissue donation. Each year, they participate in the Donor Dash with their team, “Mike’s MVPs,” honoring Mike’s love for sports and his unwavering generosity.

By sharing Mike’s donor story, Anna hopes to raise awareness about the life-changing impact of donation and inspire others to have conversations with their loved ones about registering to become donors.

“It’s one of the best gifts you can give to your family as well as to the recipients who will ultimately receive that gift from you,” Anna shared. Clutching her necklace with Mike’s thumbprint, she added, “I know he’s smiling down on us. He’s beaming with pride, and he’s here with us.”

Real-life organ donor stories like Mike’s serve as powerful reminders of how one person’s decision can profoundly affect the lives of others, creating a ripple effect of hope and healing.