Charlie and Diane Knotts' son was 23 when he died in a car accident. On his driver's license, Eric was an organ donor.
"He was a giving person, so I wasn't surprised,"
Eric's liver, kidneys and pancreas saved the lives of three people. His parents have met one recipient.
"He couldn't describe how much improved his quality of life was with Eric's donation," said Charlie.
"He sends me mother's day cards, and says to mom from both of us," added Diane.
Now, the family is an advocate of donating life. They spoke at Lima's Torch Run for Life, brought here to spread the word about the Games of America, taking place in Cleveland in June. The Olympic-style event is held every two years across the country. And will be in Ohio this year. The goal is to raise awareness about organ, eye and tissue donation.
"It's just neat that there are donors out there. With them, they help save us," said Elena Borger, who is a small intestine recipient.
One group carried the torch from Lima Memorial down Market Street and met halfway with a group from St. Rita's who took it to the finish line. The handing off the torch symbolizing transplant.
Elena Borger and her cousin Greg Dawson are both recipients and are grateful for their donors.
"All I know is that mine is from Louisina," Elena said.
"My first donor is from Pittsburgh and the second one is from Morgantown," Greg said.
Throughout the years being involved in the organ donation movement, Charlie says he learned there are a lot of people out there who needs a transplant. And he is right. In Ohio, there are more than 3,100 people waiting for a match at any time. 650 just in Central Ohio.
Gerald Marcus is one person who is currently waiting for a heart. he says hearing from recipients gives him hope.
"It's encouraging because waiting if very unusual. I don't want to end up being the 22 a year that doesn't get their donated heart, or whatever it may be," he said.
59 percent of Ohio residents are registered organ donors. But Lifeline of Ohio says there's still not enough donors to meet the need. Every 48 hours, one Ohioan dies waiting in line.
Something these advocates say can be changed with organ donation.
"We need them here, they don't need them in heaven."
To find out more and to become a donor, you can register through lifelineofohio.org.
