Celebrate 20 years of the donor registry at the Gift of Life Gala April 18!

Morgan’s Story Through Her Mother’s Eyes

My daughter Morgan received her first corneal transplant when she was just 11 months old and the second transplant to correct the other eye two months later. Prior to Morgan’s transplants, she had not seen anything, including her family.

After her surgery, the doctor took the bandage off her eye and she looked at us, her family, for the first time. From her big smile we knew the transplant was a success and her life would be forever changed for the better.

Having the transplants and giving Morgan clear vision has made a huge difference in our lives. When Morgan was first born, we were told that she would never be able to read print or ride a bike. We are happy to say Morgan reads, rides a bike, is an excellent soccer player, reads music and plays the clarinet. She’s even the pitcher for her fast-pitch softball team.

Though Morgan doesn't remember the days when she couldn't see, she has heard about them and has pictures of her journey hanging in our house to remind her daily. Our family is very grateful for her gift of vision. We appreciate the donors and their families. Please consider helping other families by registering as an organ, eye and tissue donor today.

- Melissa Hughes, mother of Morgan Hughes, Corneal Transplant Recipient