At the upcoming Tournament of Roses Parade in Pasadena, California, the spotlight will shine on a float paying tribute to the transformative power of organ and tissue donation. Among the many vibrant displays, one particular float stands out, dedicated to individuals who have either benefitted from or contributed to life-saving transplants. This is the work of an organization that seeks to honor both deceased and living donors, celebrating their impact on shrinking the national transplant waiting list, which currently holds over 100,000 names.
Elaine Jones, a remarkable living donor, gave part of her liver to Jaye, who was just an infant at the time. Now thriving as a teenager, Jaye credits Jones as a mother figure, embodying the enduring spirit of gratitude that will be evident on the float crafted by One Legacy. Under the theme “Let Your Life Soar,” the float will feature poignant stories of hope and renewal shared by those who have experienced the miracle of organ donation firsthand.
Within the intricate artistry of floral graphs, the float will intimately honor 14 organ and tissue donors whose contributions have already saved more than 50 lives and healed countless others. Among them was a toddler, only two years old, who through a tragic event, brought life to others. The parents of little Sire Porche found solace in ensuring his legacy endured—donating his organs after an accidental drowning. To them, their son’s life, although brief, achieved something profound.
This meaningful tribute hopes to inspire action, urging viewers to consider becoming donors themselves. For the families of donors and recipients alike, the parade symbolizes both a personal and communal acknowledgment of the tremendous impact that donation can have, exemplifying the intertwined destinies of kindness and hope. As these stories are set to move with the parade, so too is the aim to move hearts towards the cause of saving lives.
