Parker Pearce
Parker was taken from us far too soon at age 9 in a sudden and tragic choking accident. In those critical moments, his father acted with immediate courage and unwavering love, doing everything in his power to save his son. Because of his bravery, and the extraordinary care of the Sutter Pediatric ICU team in Sacramento, Parker was able to give the most precious gift of life to others through organ donation.
Parker was brilliant, curious, mischievous, hilarious, and endlessly loving. He filled our days with laughter, questions, and joy. He loved reading, video games, cooking, and planning pranks. He dreamed of becoming a pilot.
There aren’t enough words to hold all that Parker was. But if you knew him, you knew what a bright and shining light he was.
Though our hearts are shattered, we find strength in knowing that Parker’s bright light lives on through those he saved. He has given other families more time, more memories, more hope, and most of all, more joy.
Parker was, and always will be, a true hero.
Saying thank you
Many donor families find that corresponding with the transplant recipient or recipients can be a powerful experience. Donor families can take comfort in sharing stories and sending well wishes to those who live on because of their loved one.
Should you choose to connect, we're here to help. Letters and cards can be a tremendous gift to both the donor families and recipients. To protect everyone, we provide guidelines for communication. Names remain confidential unless both parties agree to share those with one another, and we provide a correspondence address. We are happy to share sample letters to help you get started.
For more information about corresponding with recipients, please click here.
