Amazing Acts of Love! My Father’s Gift...

On March 7, 2007, my father’s 80th birthday, we removed Jim, my late husband, from life-support. His internal defibrillator and pacemaker were the last medical devices disconnected from his soon-to-be life giving body, before the procurement organization could harvest his organs.

Jim had been in the hospital since March 1, and the decision to work with Life Source, the organ procurement organization, was made on March 5. Once the decision was made, I was told it was time to schedule his organ transplantation surgery.

Emotionally and physically, I did not want to let go of Jim... and the relatives still needed time to grieve, but I needed to set a date. With a heavy heart, I sat down with my parents and gave them the timeline.

“Dad”, I said as I started to tear-up. “I’ve been told I need to schedule a date for Life Source to do what they need to do. Unfortunately, I can’t hold on to Jim forever and people are waiting for their gifts. Would it be okay if I scheduled surgery for March 7, your 80th birthday?” I asked with tears in my eyes. Without hesitation, my father replied. “By all means, I would be honored to share my birthday with Jim.” “Are you sure, Dad? I asked, as I looked into his loving eyes. “Thank you, it is so generous of you to share your special day with Jim.” Once again, he replied, “I would be honored to share my day with him.”

Blessings Embraced:

• My father’s unconditional love for me

• Selflessness is a beautiful gift

Affirmation: I lovingly accept gifts from others.