STORY SUMMARY
In recognition of National Multicultural Donor Awareness Month, a Keller family is sharing a poignant story to inspire organ donation. Jordan Santiago, a young man known for his love of learning, travel, and people, tragically passed away on October 5, 2020, after being struck by a car in a Dallas crosswalk. Despite the profound loss, his family found solace in honoring his wish to be an organ donor, a decision that saved five lives. Noting the alarming statistic from the Southwest Transplant Alliance that 67% of those waiting for donors in Texas are Latino or African-American, the Santiago family has championed the cause through initiatives like the annual “Santi Strong 5K Run” and the Jordan Santiago Foundation. Their efforts advocate for increased organ donation awareness, particularly among multicultural communities with a high demand yet low supply of donors.
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FULL STORY
[In recognition of National Multicultural Donor Awareness Month, a family from Keller, Texas, is sharing an emotional narrative to highlight the critical need for organ donors within multicultural communities. The Southwest Transplant Alliance reports that 67% of those waiting for an organ transplant in Texas are Latino or African-American. The Santiago family offers a poignant story about their late son, Jordan, in hopes of inspiring others to consider organ donation.
Jordan Santiago led a vibrant life filled with a passion for learning, traveling, and connecting with people. Tragically, on October 5, 2020, while walking home from a Dallas Stars game, Jordan was struck by a vehicle and suffered fatal head injuries. In this moment of heartbreak, his family faced a painful decision but remembered Jordan’s earlier choice to become an organ donor, as indicated on his driver’s license. His organs ultimately saved five lives, a selfless act that reflects his generous spirit.
In their grief, the Santiago family has channeled their energy into advocacy, founding the “Santi Strong 5K Run” and the “Jordan Santiago IARE Foundation.” These initiatives aim to raise funds and increase awareness about the significant shortage of organ donors in diverse communities. Their efforts emphasize the importance of considering organ donation, especially for saving lives within these underrepresented populations.
