Donation Stories

One act of generosity becomes a lifetime of impact.

Two mothers, one heart: A shared journey for heart transplant recipients

Janell Hull / Heart Transplant
& Mary Small / Heart Transplant

Janell Hull (left) and Mary Small (right) didn’t know one other before they were each brought to the hospital late last year for a heart transplant. But they already had so much in common by the time they arrived at VCU Health Pauley Heart Center’s intensive care unit. Both had endured years-long battles with declining…

A Family’s Gift Honors Mother and Child

Cindy Spruill / Heart Donor

One summer day, a beautiful, little girl, named Kimberly, was born with sparkly eyes and chubby cheeks to first time parents Cindy and Billy Spruill.  She was diagnosed with a rare heart disease, spongy myocardium, a cardiomyopathy described in the literature though never seen by the experienced cardiologist that was in charge and assigned to…

Not all superheroes wear capes

April 22, 2021

Jimmy Januska was a typical 15-year-old teen who embraced life. He loved playing sports and building Legos for hours. He had many friends and would eagerly jump on a dance floor without hesitation. Everyone loved Jimmy. That’s why Jimmy’s tragic death left an unimaginable hole in the life of his parents Jim and Theresa, his sister…

An Unexpected Friendship

Denis Popp / Heart Transplant

Denis Popp will tell you it was his faith and bright outlook that helped him get through the dark days. But he will also tell you the unwavering support of a stranger made a remarkable difference.

In a father’s words: Steph had a remarkable life.

June 13, 2019

Billy Mutter reflects on his daughter Stephanie Green’s remarkable life for Father’s Day. Father’s Day! What a wonderful day of recognition for all fathers. As my seven-year-old granddaughter recently told me, Father’s Day is “the official time that us kids get to hang out and spend time with our father and grandfathers.” I personally love…

Checking your status could change 75 lives

Did you know organ, eye and tissue donation can save 8 people, and improve life for 75 more? Check your status right now, and sign up to help others have longer, stronger lives.