Articles from December 2019

Douglas Stewart from Muscatine, Iowa died on February 26, 2017 at the age of 52.  But he might have died 16 years earlier were it not for a very special gift he received--twice—the gift of life. Doug was only 36 years old, and the father of four young children, when he was first told he would need a liver transplant. Unfortunately, the first transplant failed, and he underwent a second liver transplant just 2 years later.

My husband Lee and I were very dedicated motorcycle riders; Lee lived for riding. He participated in many charity rides and benefits for every cause imaginable. He put his own ride together every year in honor of his grandson who has juvenile diabetes. This ride helped the family with the high costs of medication, doctor visits and transportation. I am so proud of how one unorganized man single-handedly planned a large motorcycle ride with 5 stops spanning 5 hours, followed by a benefit consisting of a raffle, silent auction, buffet and live band.

The Recipient Rainbow Tree was created and decorated by the Family Services Program of Iowa Lions Eye Bank. We are excited to share the gratitude for restored or enhanced sight experienced by our grateful cornea transplant recipients of all ages! 

Erica Reed was a gift to this world and her sweet spirit changed the lives of all those who loved her. Forever childlike, she adored zebras and flamingos, donuts and snow, shopping and traveling, telling jokes, and surrounding herself with those who loved her as much as she loved them. When meeting her for the first time, Erica would insist on knowing that person's favorite color, shape, animal, number, and Disney character. When posing for group photos, she brought smiles to all by innocently reaching to give bunny ears to whoever was next to her. Erica never wished she was anyone else but herself.

The Giving Tree Reception and Ceremony was held the afternoon of December 5th, 2019 in the Atrium Lobby of UIHC.  Paying tribute to UIHC’s organ, eye and tissue donors of 2018, families were gathered together in remembrance of their loved ones during this special season of giving.  Several speakers provided testimonials and shared stories of heartbreak, inspiration and hope in honor of those who have given life, sight, mobility and healing to recipients in Iowa and beyond through organ, eye and tissue donation.