Organ Donation as a Legacy: A Father's Tribute to His Son
A father recounts the journey of organ donation after the untimely death of his son, highlighting the critical need for donors.
Steven Orias Pichardo is among many parents who, on days marked by tragedy, must confront the loss of a child.
His son, Ariel, a healthy 19-year-old, tragically passed away after suffering multiple cardiac arrests during a gym session in 2023. Orias received the life-altering news while at work and rushed to the hospital, only to learn that Ariel had experienced three cardiac arrests and had suffered a cerebral aneurysm, resulting in brain death.
Faced with the devastating reality, Orias made a swift decision to honor his son’s wishes—Ariel had expressed a desire to be an organ donor.
This decision was made easier for Orias by recalling the pride Ariel had shown when he received his driver’s license, which indicated his status as a donor.
Orias stated, "I just wanted to fulfill his will, because he had expressed it to me in life."
Through this act of donation, Orias found solace.
He described his son as someone who loved sports and had a deep appreciation for helping others, which made the decision to donate even more poignant.
Orias reflected on his belief that losing his son was part of a greater divine plan, providing him with peace and acceptance amid his grief.
He noted, "Knowing that my son was able to help many people, even children, gives me enormous peace and trust in God's perfect plan."
Recognizing the importance of organ donation, the week of June 16-22 is observed as World Organ Donation Week, during which various institutions promote the cause.
In Costa Rica, individuals can register their intention to donate organs either through their driver's license or by officially recording their choice in the Digital Unique Health Record (EDUS) during medical consultations or at healthcare facilities.
As highlighted by Alexander Sánchez Cabo, medical manager of the Costa Rican Social Security Fund (CCSS), there are currently over 1,500 people awaiting life-saving transplants in the country.
The list includes over 1,000 individuals waiting for corneal transplants, nearly 450 patients needing kidney transplants, and at least 40 requiring liver transplants.
Furthermore, organ donation extends beyond transplants of vital organs, as tissues such as corneas, bones, and skin can significantly enhance the quality of life for many others, aiding in their recovery and rehabilitation.
His son, Ariel, a healthy 19-year-old, tragically passed away after suffering multiple cardiac arrests during a gym session in 2023. Orias received the life-altering news while at work and rushed to the hospital, only to learn that Ariel had experienced three cardiac arrests and had suffered a cerebral aneurysm, resulting in brain death.
Faced with the devastating reality, Orias made a swift decision to honor his son’s wishes—Ariel had expressed a desire to be an organ donor.
This decision was made easier for Orias by recalling the pride Ariel had shown when he received his driver’s license, which indicated his status as a donor.
Orias stated, "I just wanted to fulfill his will, because he had expressed it to me in life."
Through this act of donation, Orias found solace.
He described his son as someone who loved sports and had a deep appreciation for helping others, which made the decision to donate even more poignant.
Orias reflected on his belief that losing his son was part of a greater divine plan, providing him with peace and acceptance amid his grief.
He noted, "Knowing that my son was able to help many people, even children, gives me enormous peace and trust in God's perfect plan."
Recognizing the importance of organ donation, the week of June 16-22 is observed as World Organ Donation Week, during which various institutions promote the cause.
In Costa Rica, individuals can register their intention to donate organs either through their driver's license or by officially recording their choice in the Digital Unique Health Record (EDUS) during medical consultations or at healthcare facilities.
As highlighted by Alexander Sánchez Cabo, medical manager of the Costa Rican Social Security Fund (CCSS), there are currently over 1,500 people awaiting life-saving transplants in the country.
The list includes over 1,000 individuals waiting for corneal transplants, nearly 450 patients needing kidney transplants, and at least 40 requiring liver transplants.
Furthermore, organ donation extends beyond transplants of vital organs, as tissues such as corneas, bones, and skin can significantly enhance the quality of life for many others, aiding in their recovery and rehabilitation.
