Heart walk

The heavy rains and loud thunder couldn’t stop dozens of Memorial doctors, nurses and staffers from joining some of their transplant patients on a 5K run and walk.

They were there to raise awareness about the importance of organ donation as part of the annual Life Alliance Run 4 Life 5K Event in Hollywood.

“Organ donation is one of the most important aspects of transplantation,” said Juan Arenas, MD, Chief of the Memorial Transplant Institute. “It is wonderful to see the Memorial family out here in support of such a cause.”

For Donovan, one of Memorial's heart transplant recipients, the event took on a special meaning. He met up with his donor’s family. Rae Houston’s son, Jesse, died two years ago and Donovan received his heart.

“I am blessed,” Donovan said. “It is because of Jesse and Memorial that I am here today.”