Shelby Hamilton was only 18 when she died last month, but her death has not been in vain, say her grandparents.
Sylvia and Bill Theesen, who live at Ness Lake, find a lot of solace in the fact Shelby's donated organs have helped others to regain their health.
"As tragic as her death was, and as painful as our grieving is, we are somewhat comforted by knowing at least five people now have a chance of a better, and hopefully, a healthier and longer life after receiving Shelby's donated body organs," Sylvia told The Citizen.
The other good thing to come from the teenager's tragic death is that several of Shelby's friends have now signed up to be organ donors also.
"What a wonderful, selfless gift to give," said Sylvia.
It was Shelby's parents who made the decision to donate her organs for transplant, said Bill.
"They thought it would be the proper thing to do knowing any family facing the challenge of needing an organ transplant is a terrible thing when none are available," Bill said
"We think this was a neat thing to do since Shelby was so young. Not many young people like her pass away."
The Theesen's hope Shelby's story may also "plant an idea in people's minds" about the importance of becoming organ donors.
Shelby's obituary, which is still available to view and add condolences to, on The Citizen's web site,
says her passing was "sudden and tragic" and continues,"A beautiful young person has been lost to all of us, but is now at peace with the angels above, watching over us. She was loved by all who knew her and will be sadly missed."
A celebration of her life was held April 23 at the Alliance Church in Maple Ridge, B.C. The family said in lieu of flowers, donations to the Crisis Intervention Centre in Vancouver are appreciated.
Last year in Prince George there was about 1,600 registered organ donors while across the province the total was more than 700,000 or just over 16 per cent of the population.
There are four ways to register on the Organ Donor Registry:
- Fill in the registration form online at www.transplant.bc.ca
- Request a brochure by mail at B.C. Transplant, West Tower, 3rd floor, 555 West 12th Ave., Vancouver, B.C. V5Z 3X7.
- Call 1-800-663-6189 or 604-877-2240. Fax 604-877-2111.
- Pick up brochures at Motor Vehicle Branches, ICBC Autoplan brokers and Claim Centres and doctors' offices.
