Stories of Hope

Joseph

Tissue Recipient / Littleton, CO

“I really want to pay it forward,” said Joseph. “I want to pass this tremendous gift on to others.”

In 2011, Joseph nearly lost his upper arm to a progressive giant cell tumor. Having enjoyed an active life full of travel, fishing and adventure, the prospect of losing his ability to do what he loved was terrifying.

Initially Joseph’s tumor was removed without risk to his arm; but just six months after it was removed, the tumor came back. Although it was non-cancerous, it was aggressive. To avoid amputation, Joseph’s doctors recommended replacing a large portion of Joseph’s upper arm with donated bone. The transplant allowed Joseph’s doctors to save his arm, and ultimately, also restore his active quality of life.

Now, a passionate advocate for organ, eye and tissue donation, Joseph is an active volunteer for Donor Alliance, the Limb Preservation Foundation and Presbyterian/St. Luke’s Medical Center.

Become a Donor

By joining the Donate Life Colorado Donor Registry, you can be someone’s hero. One heroic choice can save and heal lives.