By Vivian Comeau’s Family
When the doctors told us there was nothing more they could do for our 25-year-old daughter Vivian, we were devastated. But in that moment of heartbreak, we remembered her state ID had the organ donor option checked, so we began to explore the possibility of organ donation. It became a way to transform unimaginable sorrow into something meaningful.
It was a chance for Vivian’s life to continue making a difference.
It was one of the hardest decisions we’ve ever made. We were caught in a storm of emotions: grief, disbelief, love, and a deep yearning to hold on. Letting Vivian go felt impossible. But in the midst of that pain, we searched for a way to bring light into the darkness.
Vivian was a believer in Christ, who gave Himself so that others might live. We saw organ donation as a reflection of that same spirit, an act of selflessness and grace. We believe her life, like her faith, could be used to help others in need.
Organ donation became a way to honor her life, her kindness, and her quiet strength.
It was a way to say her story doesn’t end here. We later learned that less than 1% of people can donate, which made her gift mean even more to us.
A close family friend had once needed a lung transplant but never received one. We knew how critical timing and compatibility could be, and Vivian’s uncommon blood type and size would not be limiting factors. We also followed the story of a boy with special needs who became a hero through organ donation. His story stayed with us, reminding us of the profound impact a life can have.
The NJ Sharing Network played a vital role in helping us navigate the path of organ donation. While in the hospital, they organized a flag-raising ceremony that marked Vivian’s legacy in a visible, lasting way. They also arranged an honor walk, allowing hospital staff to line the halls and pay their respects. It was deeply moving to see strangers stand in quiet tribute, recognizing Vivian not just as a donor, but as a person whose life had meaning.
Afterward, we held a Celebration of Life to extend those memories to the many circles Vivian would call family. Over 300 attendees from various circles considered family, including Church, Girl Scouts, Special Olympics, Day programs, Night to Shine, respite, Marching Band, neighbors, and many others, came together to share stories, laughter, and tears. It was a mosaic of love, a testament to the communities she helped build and the joy she brought to others.
As part of that celebration, we shared miniature toy pigs, a playful nod to Vivian’s love of bringing her own pig on family trips. Friends and family have continued to take those pigs on adventures, snapping photos and posting them to the Team Vivian Facebook page. Through these celebrations and reflections, we found a way to carry our grief with grace.
Organ donation didn’t take away the pain, but it gave it purpose. It allowed us to transform loss into legacy and sorrow into service. And in that, we found comfort, not just in what was lost, but in all that Vivian continues to give.
Are you struggling with the loss of your loved one with CdLS? Contact the Family Service team at [email protected].
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