Brandon Church

Donor Hero

“In 2005, at just 18 years old, I became a mother to my first son, Brandon. Due to a placental abruption during labor, Brandon was born without enough oxygen and spent his entire life at the NICU at Spartanburg Regional. Although he was only with us for five short days, Brandon touched countless lives and will forever be remembered as my first child and the little boy who made me a mom.” shared Michelle, mom of donor hero Brandon.  

“Facing the unimaginable, I made the decision to ask if Brandon could become an organ donor. At the time, he was the youngest donor Spartanburg Regional had ever seen. The compassionate teams at the hospital and We Are Sharing Hope SC, which was Lifepoint at the time, walked beside us every step of the way, caring not only for Brandon, but for our entire family with incredible kindness and support.  

Through his gift of donation, Brandon became a hero to other babies and families in need. During Brandon’s short time on this Earth, he was surrounded by love – held, rocked, sung to and cherished by me, our family, friends and nurses who rallied around him. After his donation, we were given precious final moments to hold him close and wrap him in love and gratitude for the difference he made in our lives and others.  

More than 20 years later, Brandon’s legacy continues to live on. His story is a powerful reminder that organ donation has no age limit, and even the smallest heroes can make a great impact. I have two other sons now, and it’s important to me that they know their brother and the incredible gift he gave. Our family will carry his memory and legacy forever.”