Liv's Love and Compassion Forever Changed Lives
Olivia (Liv) Lauryn Didway was 17 years old and entering her senior year at Republic High School. She lived a life full of purpose and exuberance. Liv was genuine, a faithful friend, no respecter of person and kindness radiated through her beautiful smile. Those who knew her speak of her contagious laughter, sweet spirit, and vibrant personality. Liv defined love and compassion beyond her years, always looking for the good in others and creating a positive influence for her peers. Olivia loved Audrey Hepburn movies, photography and running. Sometimes she would exchange her Converse shoes for hunting boots. On June 27, 2014, a tragic vehicle accident took the life of an extraordinary daughter and forever changed the lives of everyone who knew and loved her.
Olivia’s compassion and willingness to help others continued even in her passing. Her decision at age 16 to register as an organ and tissue donor blessed her recipients with the precious Gift of Life. It also offered her family comfort through unfathomable grief.
Through organ donation Olivia saved five lives. Her kind heart now beats strongly for a teenage boy from Tennessee. The recipient of Olivia’s right kidney was a 55-year-old man. Her left kidney was given to a 53-year-old father. A 27-year-old man received Olivia’s liver, and the recipient of Liv’s lungs was a 61-year-old grandmother.
Olivia’s family believe she is looking down from Heaven with a humble heart, honored that her story is inspiring thought and conversation on the Gift of Life. Though countless individuals have been encouraged to sign the donor registry, we will never fully realize the number of lives impacted through Liv’s selfless act.
-Angela Rose, Olivia’s mom
