On August 14, 1984 I received one of the best gifts of my life, my son Michael. He spent his life always helping and doing things for others but he never felt like he truly fit in anywhere. Many people have told me that he will never be forgotten not because he died young and tragically but because of what he always gave to others. Through Lifebanc my son continues to give to others and his legacy lives on.
It was March 5, 2006. I got a phone call from my son's friend who told me Michael was in an accident while riding his four-wheeler. The day stays etched in my mind as if it was only yesterday. When I got to the scene, the ambulance had already left and was on the way to the Hospital. My mothers' intuition kicked in and I knew it wasn't good. I made all necessary phone calls on my way to the hospital. I knew that my 21-year-old son, who lived life on the edge and to the fullest, would not survive this accident. As family and friends began to stagger in and we were told that he didn't make it my husband suggested cornea donation. We spoke to a hospital social worker and his process of cornea, bone and tissue donation began
On Michaels' 21st birthday, when we were at the BMV he was asked if he wanted to be an organ donor. He turned to me and asked if I was one. Regrettably, I said no and so did he. I am thankful that we were able to do otherwise. Since his accident my husband and I have become registered organ donors.
Although this, the greatest tragedy any mother should ever have to endure, I know that my son's life and his death were for a reason...to help others. I don't feel that my sons' life was cut short; I feel that helping others through donation was his purpose.
Written by Lynn Washko, mom of tissue donor, Michael Cardinale
