INDIANAPOLIS — Almost four million Hoosiers are registered as organ donors. Are you?
That’s something one family wants you to consider, after losing one of their own in a crash.
“He liked to have fun and goof off, but he had such a tender heart,” said Bryan Langford, Justin Langford’s father.
At just 23 years old, Justin, who loved his family and his church, lost his life in a crash back in 2013.
“He got more out of life in 23 years than most people do in 100. Church was a key part of that foundation,” said Bryan.
Justin’s devotion to faith led him to register as an organ donor, which, has ultimately saved the lives of others.
“He was actually the first one in our family to put that red heart on his license,” said Janice Langford, Justin’s mother.
The Langford’s said discussing organ donation is crucial to have with your family.
"Once you're at the realization that the end of life occurred, and you have that first discussion with the professionals about organ donations, it is so hard to hear that question about your loved one. But, knowing that was Justin’s wish, it was something that we had to do,” said Bryan.
Justin’s organs and tissues have provided the gift of life to more than 70 recipients—you can give up to eight organs, along with tissues like the corneas, skin, and bones.
The Langford’s have been able to meet three of Justin’s recipients thus far.
"It brings me peace to our whole journey. I've been very blessed to hear his heartbeat on two different occasions. It feels good. I love to meet them,” said Janice.
"It's an extended part of our family,” said Bryan.
The Langford’s said they continue to be amazed each and every day by their son’s decision.
"It is really an example of who Justin was, and he continues to have an impact on everyone he knew and will continue to in the future. That's a gift that each of us can give,” said Bryan.
You can sign up to be an organ donor through Donate Life Indiana.
Teens from 15 to 17 years old can also register, but their legal guardians have the final say until they turn 18.
The Langford’s have the annual Justin Langford Memoria Run4Hope event coming up on Saturday, May 18th at New Hope Christian Church.
You can sign up at the following link: https://runsignup.com/Race/IN/Whitestown/JustinsRun4Hope
