Carrying on the Legacy: The Power of Volunteers
11/26/2025The Power of One Decision
The decision to register as an organ and tissue donor was never a topic of conversation between Leslie Waldron and her son, Brian Killpatrick. Leslie wasn’t aware of her son’s decision to register as a donor, and it wasn’t until Brian passed away in 2023 from a heart attack that his decision changed lives.
Compassion in the most difficult times
“We remember him as he lived – loving, funny, kind and always giving.”
When Brian passed away, he was able to donate his kidneys, offering the gift of life to two recipients. Leslie finds comfort in knowing that Brian’s generosity lives on in the lives of people she may never meet.
Even so, the opportunity for Brian’s recipients to know her son and the light he shared is something Leslie will not pass by. Now, she sends them letters, photos and bracelets with the letters “WWBD” (what would Brian do).
“He loved everyone, and everyone loved him,” Leslie says. “He found joy and humor in each day.”
Carrying on the Legacy
Leslie wants others to know that Brian was full of life. She does so as a loyal volunteer with Donor Network of Arizona (DNA). To her, this means carrying forward the spirit of generosity that Brian showed.
“Volunteering allows me to turn grief into hope and keeps Brian’s legacy alive by inspiring others to give the gift of life,” she says.
Behind the mission is a team of dedicated volunteers who offer their time and platform to share the lifesaving impact of organ and tissue donation with the public. Our volunteers play a vital role in teaching about the importance of donation, and they come with experience from all different parts of the donation process: organ recipients, donor families and donation advocates alike. From educating the public at community registration tables to touching the hearts of others by sharing personal donation stories, they bring life to the mission and help us honor the legacy of donors and their families.
We are beyond grateful for their unwavering commitment to DNA, driving us closer to a world where there is no waitlist for a second chance at life.
Share the gift of life
Donation changed the grieving process for Leslie, giving her comfort in knowing that Brian helped save others. It doesn’t take away the pain of losing her son, but it gives her pride and peace to know his kindness lives on.
“Please consider becoming a donor – it truly makes a difference,” she says.
Just like Brian, you can transform lives and extend kindness through the gift of organ and tissue donation.
You can do so by registering as an organ and tissue donor or volunteering with us. Register today at DonateLifeAZ.org or next time you visit an Arizona Department of Transportation Motor Vehicle Division office to renew or apply for your driver’s license or state ID.
Register to be an organ and tissue donor TODAY!