“She believed in sharing life’s blessings”

When Anchor Point woman Erica Walli, 49, lost her life in an ATV accident, her family learned that she had a rare blood type, and saw hope in Walli’s choice to be an organ donor.

“Erica left this life as she lived it,” said Adrienne Sweeney, Walli’s sister. “She believed in sharing life’s blessings — from her big hugs to the last fish she gave away, and finally, her ultimate gift of organ donation. She was a giver in the truest sense.”

Honoring Alaska’s Donor Heroes: A night of gratitude and healing

Walli is one of 37 Alaskans who gave the gift of life through organ donation last year. Their donations saved more than 90 lives. On May 30, 2025, the State of Alaska honored these donor heroes in a private ceremony held for their families. Lt. Gov. Nancy Dahlstrom spoke at the event and presented each family with a Gift of Life award, signed by Gov. Mike Dunleavy, recognizing the rare and remarkable gifts of their loved ones.

Organ donation is exceptionally rare — less than 1% of deaths result in donation eligibility — yet its impact is profound. In Alaska, where there are no organ transplant centers, LifeCenter Northwest works closely with hospitals and families to honor a donor’s wishes and navigate the complex logistics of transporting organs thousands of miles to recipients in need. It’s a unique and deeply human part of Alaska’s health care story.

“To be an organ donor is to turn tragedy to hope, to save other families from loss,” said Santokh Gill, president and CEO of LifeCenter Northwest.

LifeCenter Northwest hosts similar ceremonies in Montana and Washington, recognizing donors and their families across the region. These events are a powerful way for us to deepen our connection with communities, express gratitude, and advocate for the importance of organ, eye, and tissue donation.