Sandy Berg from Pine, Colo., and Milagros Estrello from Colorado Springs, Colo., share an incredible bond—one that began with the gift of organ donation. In 2012, Sandy’s 13-year-old son, Jack, tragically passed away. In the midst of their heartbreak, Sandy and her family made the courageous choice to say YES to organ and tissue donation, honoring Jack’s giving spirit. That decision changed lives—including that of Milagros’ baby girl, Adilem.

Adilem was born a happy, healthy baby, but by the time she was two months old, her liver started failing. Surgery couldn’t stop her condition from getting worse, and soon she was placed on the transplant waitlist. Four months later, thanks to her organ donor, Jack, and his family’s incredible generosity, Adilem received the liver she so desperately needed. That gift saved her life, giving her the chance to grow up happy, strong, and full of joy.

This year, Sandy and Milagros met for the first time at Donor Alliance’s annual Donor Dash. It was an emotional moment—two families forever connected by an extraordinary gift. Milagros shared, “Every day, I think about Jack and his parents. There are no words to express my gratitude; they gave my daughter the gift of life.”

A photo of Jack hangs in Milagros and Adelim’s home, nestled among a cherished collection of family photos and memories. Jack’s photo stands as a powerful symbol of the countless memories they’ve been able to create and preserve—all made possible by his lifesaving gift.

Today, Jack’s mother, Sandy, is a passionate advocate for organ and tissue donation, keeping Jack’s memory alive by sharing his story. Through her efforts, she hopes to inspire others to check the box and say YES to donation—because, as Adilem’s story shows, one decision really can change everything.

Rhonda Hill of Douglas, Wyo., is living proof of the lifechanging power of organ donation. Diagnosed with severe juvenile diabetes at just 17, she faced years of health struggles, including kidney failure, which forced her on to dialysis. In October 2000, everything changed—after 18 months on the waitlist, she got the call she had been waiting for. A heroic donor had given her the ultimate gift: a kidney and pancreas. That moment didn’t just save her life—it gave her a renewed sense of gratitude and purpose.

Rhonda’s connection to donation runs even deeper. In 2022, she experienced loss firsthand when her husband passed away—but even in grief, she found comfort knowing he had chosen to give the gift of life, like someone had done for her.

A passionate advocate, Rhonda has devoted herself to educating and inspiring Wyomingites about the importance of organ and tissue donation. In 2024, she took her advocacy to the national stage, proudly representing Donor Alliance in the Rose Parade. Riding alongside transplant recipients and donor families, Rhonda helped shine a spotlight on the power of donation. For the nearly 1,300 people in the region still waiting for a second chance at life, her story is a compelling testament to the profound impact of saying YES to donation.

Rosa Montoya’s world changed forever when she lost her 19-year-old daughter, Jazmyne. Though the pain of losing her was unimaginable, Rosa found comfort in knowing that Jazmyne’s decision to become an organ and tissue donor saved two lives and continues to make a lasting impact. Beyond organ donation, Jazmyne’s generous spirit lives on through her gifts of tissue—creating a connection Rosa deeply treasures. She remains in touch with one of Jazmyne’s tissue recipients, finding solace in knowing her daughter is still helping others.

Jazmyne’s radiant smile reflected her vibrant spirit and love for life. She had a deep affection for animals, a passion for makeup, and a heartfelt connection to music. Her flute was more than just an instrument—it was an extension of her soul, one she proudly played as part of her high school marching band.

At just 16, she made the decision to register as an organ and tissue donor—a reflection of the kindness and generosity she showed throughout her life. She was also a dedicated high school cheerleader, embodying the same energy and enthusiasm that now fuels Rosa’s advocacy for organ and tissue donation.

As a donor mom, Rosa keeps Jazmyne’s legacy alive by sharing her story and encouraging others to check the box. She hopes Jazmyne’s generous decision will inspire others to choose organ and tissue donation— illustrating how a single act of kindness can ripple out and transform countless lives.