Hero and Recipient Stories

Making Life Happen

  • The gift of organ and tissue donation is an act of quiet heroism. The memories of our Heroes are treasured. Our Hero Stories Blog is for cherished memories submitted by the families of these Heroes. For details on how to submit a Hero Story, please continue scrolling.

  • The gift of organ and tissue donation truly saves and enhances lives, and it happens right here in communities throughout our state. Our Recipient Stories Blog allows you to meet some of Louisiana's recipients. For details on how to submit a Recipient Story, please continue scrolling.

  • Each quilt is comprised of individual squares created and submitted by a donor’s family. The quilts are dedicated to the memory of those whose legacies live on through the Gift of Life. For details on how to assemble and submit a Quilt Square, please continue scrolling.

How do I submit Quilt Square?

Quilt Squares.

The completed quilt panels and "Heroes from the Quilt" will travel throughout the state for display at public awareness events, memorials, meetings and other special events. The panels will remind the public of the gift that is organ and tissue donation, and will honor those who selflessly gave that gift to others.

The quilt square should measure 8½ inches x 8½ inches with the actual image within an 8" x 8" space. This will leave a seam allowance on all four sides of the square for sewing. Any fabric color or type is acceptable. You may wish to incorporate sentimental materials such as baby blankets, high school jackets, ties, favorite jeans or sweaters. A variety of techniques in decorating the squares have been used. Some suggestions include appliqué, cross stitch, embroidery, fabric paint, crayons, stenciling, photo transfers, and school letters and sports emblems. Please feel free to include the name of your loved one and any significant dates, events, hobbies, accomplishments, nicknames, etc. on the quilt square. Do not "finish" the square with quilting or backing. The quilt travels frequently. Please sew everything securely and avoid using glue, as it may dry out over time. New quilts are always being made and squares are accepted year round.

Download the quilt submission form here. Mail finished square and story to:

Louisiana Organ Procurement Agency

Attn: Quilt Squares

68190 Highway 190 Service Rd.

Covington, LA 70433


How do I submit a Hero or Recipient story?

Hero Stories.

There are many stories tied to organ and tissue donation, each playing an essential role in LOPA's process. Our hope is for you to get to know the narratives that inspire our team, day in and day out, to help save lives. Throughout the Hero Stories, you will get to know our heroes, each with their own story written from the heart of their families. The Louisiana Organ Procurement Agency (LOPA) wishes to encourage all donor families to honor their loved one by sharing a Hero Story.

The gift of organ and tissue donation is an act of quiet heroism. Please know the memory of your loved one will be treasured and this is a place to honor and to remember individuals that have saved and enhanced lives. Please feel free to send the story of your hero and a photo.

For Hero Stories, please complete the Story Form below or contact:
LOPA / Family Support Services: familyservices@lopa.org

Recipient Stories.

The gift of organ and tissue donation truly saves and enhances lives. It doesn't just happen on TV or in national news. It happens right here in our communities throughout our state. We encourage you to meet some of Louisiana's recipients - those whose lives have been forever changed because their hero said YES to organ and tissue donation.

If you are a recipient and would like to tell your story, please feel free to send your story, along with a photo of yourself. These stories are personal accounts from individuals who are living, breathing testaments to the power and renewal of donation. Their inspiring journeys are devoted to all of our heroes.

For Recipient Stories, please complete the Story Form below or contact:

LOPA / Community Education: community@lopa.org

Submit a Story