How Organ Donation Changed Everything for a Donor Sister

“Her organ donation helps me cope with her death, knowing that a part of her is still living with us, and being able to see her recipients live their lives to the fullest.” – Krista, donor sister 

There are many types of relationships in the world, but I think the one shared between siblings is something special. I am fortunate to have an older brother in my life, but the relationship I had with my younger sister was extra special. We were together all the time. If we weren’t together, we were always on the phone texting or calling each other. It goes without saying – she was my best friend.

Sadly, my sister died at the age of 19 in a tragic fire in January of 2009. The person who I talked to multiple times a day, who I laughed with growing up, who always made me smile, was suddenly gone.

My friends didn’t know what to say, so they usually said nothing. Co-workers never mentioned her name. I endured so many emotions on my own. No one knew what it was like to lose a sibling, especially so early in life. I struggled to grasp the concept that I would never be able to do those “sisterly” things again.

In the midst of tragedy, my sister was able to save three lives as an organ donor. Her donation, changed my role of being a sister, to being a donor sister. I’m the first to admit that this change was, and continues to be, an incredibly hard journey. But honestly, I don’t know where I would be today if I wasn’t a donor sibling.

Her donation helps me cope with her death, knowing that a part of her is still living with us, and being able to see her recipients live their lives to the fullest. I’m so proud of my sister and her decision to be an organ donor. I tell anyone who will listen about the importance of registering as an organ donor.

I want there to be peace of mind, even in the smallest amount, for anyone that has to go through losing a loved one, especially a sibling.

– Krista Hardebeck, donor sister