Cornea Donor – A Final Act of True Joy
On May 28, Steven Beech succumbed from injuries he sustained as a victim of a hit and run. He was 38 years old. At age 9, Steven was watching a program about organ donorship and resoundingly informed his mother that he was going to be a donor. The minute he reached the age he could become a donor, he opted in, and it was one of the first things he did when he moved to the U.S.
Steven was gregarious, kind, loving, witty, funny, smart and charming. He had a giant smile and a penchant for giant bear hugs. He was wildly intelligent but never smug. He loved to laugh and loved making others laugh. He loved being kind, and he loved when people were kind to each other. He encouraged everyone to “Be Better,” whether it was small things (pouring the perfect pint) or the bigger things (going above and beyond).
Through Steven’s ultimate sacrifice, he saved two lives with both kidneys. His corneas were taken along with his skin. We hope his sacrifice and long-standing belief in donation will help others go on to live long and fruitful lives. Steven was exceptional, so it’s only fitting that he gave exceptional gifts. This is his final act of true joy.