IDAHO FALLS – Robert Parkinson, inspired by his life-saving neighbors in 2010, lives by the acronym ‘GTBA,’ which stands for “Good To Be Alive.” His truck proudly displays the same message on its license plate.
At a flag-raising event during Organ Donation Awareness Month at Eastern Idaho Regional Medical Center, Parkinson recounted how his neighbor, Jeremy Rose, selflessly donated his liver to save his life following a tragic accident in Hawaii in 2010 that left Rose brain-dead at 34 years old.
Jeremy Rose | Photo courtesy of Emily Bowcutt.
Emily Bowcutt, Rose’s sister and a medical and surgical director at EIRMC, shared the emotional journey of her family’s decision to donate Jeremy’s organs after his passing. Despite initial hesitance, the family ultimately chose to honor Jeremy’s wishes and donate his organs, including his liver to Parkinson, who was in urgent need of a transplant.
Parkinson expressed deep gratitude for the selfless act that saved his life, acknowledging the profound impact of receiving such a gift during a critical moment. The transplant not only saved Parkinson’s life but also facilitated kidney transplants for two individuals in Hawaii.
The bond between the two families has since grown stronger, with Parkinson considering his neighbors as part of his extended family. He now cherishes moments with his 24 grandchildren, made possible by the generosity of Rose and his family.
Reflecting on the invaluable gift he received, Parkinson acknowledged the challenge of repaying such a profound gesture. He emphasized the importance of paying it forward and honoring the donor family’s altruism by making a positive impact in the lives of others.
Organ donation remains a critical need, with 17 individuals nationally losing their lives daily while awaiting transplants. In 2023, 27 patients and families at EIRMC generously donated organs to those in need, highlighting the significance of organ donation in saving lives.
Healthcare professionals at EIRMC, in collaboration with organizations like Donor Connect, are actively working to dispel misconceptions surrounding organ donation and ensure that more patients have access to life-saving transplants. They stress the importance of discussing organ donation preferences with loved ones to honor individual wishes and potentially save lives in the future.
Choosing to become an organ donor in Idaho is a simple yet impactful decision that can be indicated on one’s driver’s license or state ID card, offering hope and renewed life to those in need.