The "One Heart Shared by Two" Threads of Life quilt square was designed by Lisa McGrew Siegfried to honor her donor, Sara  Bongartz.   It was inspired by Sara's bedroom colors and a Robert Service poem chosen by Sara's mom,

"God made a heart from gold ... shimmering and sweet and true...".

The photograph was Sara's senior portrait.

Lisa was grateful and humbled to receive a heart from the beautiful 17-year-old Californian. Sara was critically injured in an auto accident. She passed away on July 23, 2005. During her final hours Sara was surrounded with love by her mom and stepdad, Lisa and Jesse Delaney, her sister Lauren, her dad, Bill Bongartz and many of her friends. In spite of their devastating loss and shock, Sara's family honored her wish to be a donor and in so doing, saved  many lives.

Nearly a senior, Sara dreamed of becoming a psychiatrist. Loving and exuberant, she cherished family and friends. Sara was quiet, grounded, reflective and intense but also goofy, silly and full of laughter. Sara enjoyed skating, skiing, surfing, and travel. She was good at drawing and was learning guitar. Sara loved  classic rock.

In 2005 I was in excellent health without any risk factors  when quite suddenly   an unknown virus  caused viral cardiomyopathy, destroying  my heart. My heart, liver, and kidneys failed and  I was placed in a medically induced coma . Heart pumps kept me alive for five months until I could receive a heart transplant.

Our lives became forever linked when Sara passed away on July 23, 2005 and I received her heart on July 24, 2005.  Not only did Sara give me the truely awesome  gift of a heart, but she also gave others second chances with her kidneys, liver, and lungs.   Having Sara's heart beating inside me is my ever present source of pride and inspiration. 

Please help me to honor Sara in all her goodness and humanitarianism by giving a donation of any amount. Whether or not you are able to give a tax deductable donation, please register to be an organ, eye or tissue donor.    It only takes a couple minutes and is the most selfless gift you can give!  Thank you for your interest and and support! 

On April 29, 2011 my wonderful niece, Leigh Ann Mcgrew Lawrentz  successfully completed a 77 KM marathon.   Her motto was "running with heart for hearts." Thank You Leigh Ann and all of YOU  who were so generous with your support and donations.   Together we raiesed nearly $4000 to  help the   108,000  Americans currently awaiting an organ!

 

 

  My heart felt thanks,

Lisa

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Donating through this website is simple, fast and totally secure. It is also the most efficient way to support my fundraising efforts.