After losing Michael, his family honored his wish to be an organ donor. Michael’s selflessness saved many lives, as he was able to donate five of his organs to those in need. Michael’s sister, Krista Deguffroy, said, “So many people are able to get a second chance at life through donation. After going through it, now our eyes are open to all that donors can do. Donation is a chance to celebrate Michael’s life, and allows his legacy to be one of saving others. I’m so glad our family made the decision. It has shown me how life can continue on, even after death.”
Krista describes Michael as a funny, honest man – who would have helped anyone. She said that he always gave his shoulder, ear or money to help anyone who needed it. “He loved the Flyers, fishing and motorcycles. He was a kind soul.” she said.
Annually, Krista and Michael’s family and friends join together to celebrate his life and the gifts that he gave to others by participating in the Donor Dash. In the past, their team has had more than 55 people to walk and run as part of team “Miracles from Michael.” In 2016, the team raised over $6,000 through fundraising for the Dash, which will support organ and tissue donation educational initiatives.
“People thanked us, and said what a hero Michael was. We felt camaraderie with everyone there, and it made us realize that we aren’t alone.” — Krista Deguffroy
“Last year at the Dash, we had no idea what to expect since it was our first time.” said Krista. “It was really powerful. There were so many donor families and recipients there. People thanked us, and said what a hero Michael was. We felt camaraderie with everyone there, and it made us realize that we aren’t alone.”
This year, Krista and her team are trying to recruit even more Dashers. They are also hosting a Bowling Bash in Bensalem with family and friends to fundraise for their team.
The Donor Dash is a great opportunity to honor donors, like Michael, to celebrate the lives of recipients and to raise awareness about the more than 5,300 men, women and children in Gift of Life’s region (the eastern half of PA, southern NJ and DE) who are awaiting a life-saving organ transplant.
Krista said, “There is no greater gift or opportunity than organ donation, to continue the life of your loved one and help others. I encourage people to register and to share their wishes with their family.”