There was not a dry eye in our offices when Lifesharing reunited Chris and Tawni Raceles with Daniela Castro, the woman who received their son's kidney. Gavin Raceles, 7, passed away in 2019 after his intestines suddenly became twisted, depriving his brain of oxygen. When his life could not be saved, his parents made the selfless decision to donate his organs though Lifesharing. Their decision saved three lives -- including Daniela's. On November 21, 2023 -- just days before Thanksgiving -- Lifesharing held an event to formally announce Gavin Raceles as its Rose Parade Honoree for 2024 and unveil a floral portrait of him that will be featured on the float. Daniela and her family drove more than 100 miles to join the Raceles family at the event. Lifesharing Executive Director Jeff Trageser unveiled Gavin's floral portrait as local television news cameras were rolling. One by one, each family member took turns putting the finishing touches on Gavin's portrait. It was a truly beautiful moment that we will never forget!
.
Thank you to the Raceles and Moreno families for your love and generosity.
.
Thank you to our partners at Sharp HealthCare, whose physicians performed Daniela's kidney transplant. Special thanks to Christine Prewitt, MSN, RN, and Jaceli Garcia for attending our event in support of these amazing families.
.
Thank you to Lifesharing Executive Director Jeff Trageser and Lifesharing Organ Family Services Supervisor Melissa Culver for delivering opening remarks in both English and Spanish.
.
Video filmed, produced and edited by Lifesharing Public Relations Director Anne State. Anne also organized the press event.
.
Lifesharing is the organ procurement organization (OPO) serving San Diego and Imperial counties in Southern California. We coordinate organ and tissue donation at the end of life.
29 ноя 2023
