Jean-René became an organ donor

Jean-René was caring, kind and deeply loved by those around him. He loved music and listened closely to the lyrics, with a playlist that spanned every genre. He also volunteered with the RSPCA and adored animals of all kinds. He wouldn’t even harm a fly. 

At 38, he experienced a sudden brain aneurysm and was found unconscious at home. Despite undergoing brain surgery, he sadly passed away 4 days later. 

His sister Jasmine says Jean-René was always looking out for others. When the opportunity came to donate his organs, the family didn’t hesitate. 

‘My brother was the most caring, empathetic and generous person. He would give an arm and a leg to anyone who needed it. I knew what he would have wanted, so when they asked about organ donation, I instantly said yes. Our family never second-guessed it,’ said Jasmine. 

When DonateLife specialists checked the Australian Organ Donor Register, they discovered Jean-René had already registered as a donor years earlier. 

‘It was a running joke in our family that we both needed to be fitter, but doctors said Jean-René was fit and healthy to donate. He would have been so proud.’ 

Jean-René’s heart donation was especially meaningful to Jasmine and her family. Her eldest daughter had open-heart surgery at just 3 months old. 

‘When we found out Jean-René could donate his heart, everyone broke down in tears. It gave us so much closure. His heart is still beating and has given someone a second chance at life even though he’s no longer here. We’re so proud of how many people he helped and that brings us comfort.’ 

When asked why people should register as organ and tissue donors, Jasmine says, ‘If you can help even one person, why wouldn’t you? Knowing someone has a second chance is beautiful. You don’t need your organs in the next world, so why not save a life in this one?’