Elkhart family meets recipient of son’s heart

April is National Donate Life Month, a time to raise awareness about the importance of organ, eye, and tissue donation. The Indiana Donor Network is sharing the touching story of the Dean and Homsher families, who were brought together through the power of donation.

In 2017, Justin Dean passed away at the age of 21 following a car accident. His parents, Frank and Amy Dean, made the selfless decision to donate Justin’s organs to save others. Justin’s gifts saved the lives of five individuals, including Alan Homsher of Crawfordsville, Indiana, who received Justin’s heart.

The Deans have received letters of gratitude from most of the recipients, but they had never met anyone in person until April 1 when they welcomed Homsher into their Elkhart home. During their emotional meeting, the Deans listened to their son’s heart beating inside Homsher’s chest with a stethoscope.

The Dean and Homsher families are now connected in a profound way through the gift of life. Their story serves as a reminder of the impact organ donation can have on individuals and families.

This National Donate Life Month, consider registering as an organ donor and having conversations with loved ones about your wishes. You never know whose life you may save!