DONATE LIFE ROSE PARADE FLOAT-HAWAII ORGAN DONOR PART OF ROSE PARADE FLOAT

Source: KITV Channel 4

WOMAN'S ORGANS SAVED LIVES OF TWO MEN, HELPED OTHERS

HONOLULU -- A float featuring dozens of organ donors will carry the image of a Hawaii woman in this coming Pasadena Tournament of Roses Parade.

The 2010 Donate Life float will carry the images of 76 organ donors. Fondly known as Miss Aloha, Kuuleialoha Patton died from a brain aneurysm in April.

Two men are alive after receiving her kidneys. Her skin, bone tissue and corneas were given to other patients.

Her family on Thursday put the finishing touches on her "floragraph" made of materials like ground coffee, beans and strawberry seed.

The family said she dedicated her life giving back to people, especially through hula and the arts. One of her favorite things to do during this time of year is buy gifts for the less fortunate.

"She was the epitome of the aloha spirit, and if you really wanted to know what the aloha spirit was just look at her life, you'll see it," Patton's husband, Don, said.

Nationally there are more than 105,000 people are waiting for a life saving transplant.

Patton's family said they are proud that her generosity gave life to others.