Joey and Danny King grew up in a large family, always lending a hand to help each other and their neighbors. They put their lives on the line daily as Pittsburgh firefighters, and continued their legacy of selflessness when each became organ and tissue donors.
“This is like an additional inheritance, a blessing even, from someone we have lost, going to someone else who needs what we have to give,” said Joey’s wife, Denise. “They are truly our heroes in life and beyond.”
In 2014, Danny was helping a neighbor with painting and passed after a tragic fall from a ladder.
Danny’s decision to donate his organs saved four people, said his wife, Janet. Witnessing Danny’s gift of life led Joey to register as a way to continue helping others, Denise added.
“When a family is faced with a sudden loss it may be hard to consider organ donation at that time,” Denise acknowledged. “But then you realize that your loved ones can continue their legacy by helping others.”
Seven years after his brother’s accident, Joey – long-since retired from 40 years of firefighting and 26 as Union President – tragically suffered cardiac arrest while helping clear snow in his neighborhood.
“Our husbands were able to continue with their life of service, by once again giving of themselves so others can live or improve others quality of life with something like corneas, ligaments or skin, frequently used to treat burn patients,” Denise said, noting that both brothers witnessed first-hand severe burn injuries and the long recovery process.
“While they are no longer here physically, their donations continue to bless us and those who received them,” Denise said. “Please share the love this month and year round and encourage others to sign up to become a donor.”