THE ULTIMATE GIFT
BY GEVRINASEFERA | Nike Women

The gift of life can sometimes be taken for granted. We go about our days forgetting that everything in life is not ephemeral. In fact, I was recently inspired by a family who is well known at my old high school for their two very talented sons. I wanted to write this article as a tribute to their family unity, strength and perseverance following the passing of their youngest son. I also wanted to honor the family by promoting the Donate Life campaign, which resounds deeply in the hearts of every family member.

A son, a brother, a friend, A GIVER. That is who Scott Davis was, a young man with numerous talents, a young man who will never be forgotten. Scott passed away at the age of 19 and was able to donate his organs; he was a giver…a giver of life. Scott was able to donate his kidneys, liver, gallbladder, and tissue samples that saved lives.

Every year, Donate Life puts on a 1k/5k walk-run to commemorate loved ones that have passed away and from their deaths have been able to donate their organs to save the lives of so many people that are in desperate need of a transplant. The donor recipients are able to share their appreciation to the families by walking with them in the memory of their loved one.

Last year a record-setting number of participants filled the streets of Fullerton, Calif. in hopes of unifying and celebrating the Donate Life program. The 9,000 strong marched along the Cal State Fullerton campus as one body, one life, and the memory of Scott Davis was celebrated.

The people that Scott saved had the honor to walk alongside not only his beautiful family but also 300 people that where on his team this year. His friends, family, students from his high school, the donor recipients, as well as his high school cheerleading team came to not only honor the memory of Scott but also promote awareness of donating to save a life. This year they walked in Fullerton again on April 30.

If you are interested in the Donate Life Campaign or would like to find out more you can check out their website at www.donatelife.net Be part of this movement that promotes giving the ULTIMATE gift-LIFE!

-Gevrina