Young Man’s Legacy of Generosity Lives on Through Organ Donation
Eden Atwood remembers her late son, Benjamin Hubbard Atwood Anderson, 20, as “a comet — a bright, shining star of a kid,” who pushed the physical boundaries of anything on wheels. He had a kind, caring soul and lived life passionately.
In May 2024, Anderson was critically injured in a motorcycle accident doing what he loved most — going fast. When it became clear that Anderson would not make a meaningful recovery, Atwood made the compassionate decision to remove him from ventilated support. She honored her son’s vibrant life and generous spirit by choosing organ and tissue donation. This decision restored the sight of two people, and saved the lives of four others, including a young boy who received Anderson’s heart.
“His life means something,” said Atwood. “It’s important to me that he is remembered.”
Anderson is one of 60 Montanans who gave the gift of life through organ donation last year — a record year of generosity in the state. Their donations saved 164 lives. On April 25, the State of Montana honored these donors in a private ceremony held for their families. Lt. Gov. Kristen Juras presented each family with a Gift of Life award, signed by Gov. Greg Gianforte, recognizing the rare and remarkable gifts of their loved ones.
“As stewards of the gift of life, we witness the power of organ donation every day in the pursuit of our mission,” says Santokh Gill, president and CEO of LifeCenter Northwest. “We are grateful for this opportunity to honor donors and their families and celebrate the second chances they selflessly provided to others through organ donation.”
We are fortunate to partner on storytelling with local media. See coverage of this special event below:
“Gift of Life ceremony in Helena honors Montana organ donors”
“Mother of Montana man shares how son’s passing brought hope to others through organ donation”
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