Today we lost our friend, Jessica White. Anytime we lose someone so young we are told it is God's will, He has a higher purpose for her. After praying nearly constantly for the past two days, I fully believe this to be true.

She took the first step herself when she became an organ donor. She gave so much during her short life and will continue to give the gift of life to others even though she is gone.

Secondly, I believe I have been charged with furthering His wishes and hope that we can educate people to the tragic consequences that ended her life and thereby save others.

Please read the following about DVT - Deep Vein Thrombosis - and make sure you tell your friends and family. DVT is a blood clot deep in a vein, often in the legs. The following signs and symptoms are from the Web MD site:

Swelling in one or both legs
Pain or tenderness in one or both legs, which may occur only while standing or walking
Warmth in the skin of the affected leg
Red or discolored skin in the affected leg
Visible surface veins
Leg fatigue

If you or someone you know experiences these symptoms, please call your doctor immediately. In at least 10% of people with DVT, a piece of the clot breaks off and goes to the lungs causing a pulmonary embolism. In Jessica's case, it was fatal almost instantly. Machines kept her alive a little longer, but His plans were already in motion.

I know that God has welcomed Jessica home with open arms, and showed her all the love that we had for her. Please pray for her family, for God to fill the gaping hole in their hearts with his strength, and to help them find peace.

Andrea Pack
Hixson

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Ms. Pack,
I sympathize for you over the loss of your loved one and I commend you for becoming one of our donor families in this area. Your loved one is still living through the people whose lives she has saved and improved.

What greater gift can anyone give that would be more appreciated than "The Gift of Life"?

I am a recipient of an organ transplant 16 years ago and have served as a volunteer for donor services all those years and will continue until my time comes to pass on.

Since I was never able to contact my donor family, I accept you and all transplant families as my heroes. In fact, a few Sundays ago we honored our donor families at our annual presentation at GPS where we present medals and bestow our thanks and appreciation. I hope you will contact the Tennessee Donor Services at 763-4077 and let them explain the benefits of becoming a volunteer with us.

Again, thank you and God bless you for your compassion for giving "The Gift of Life".

Bill Watkins
Volunteer
Tennessee Donor Services
Ooltewah