Mary Zeman

Donor Hero

“Mary was the best person I’ve ever known, and knowing that through donation she could help so many people brought me peace,” shared Mark, about his wife, donor hero Mary. 

“Mary was always on the move and always doing something. She was a self-taught artist who loved color and positive messages. Sometimes she would work on three different paintings at the same time. She sold hundreds of paintings and has left a beautiful legacy through her art and her gift of life through organ, eye and tissue donation. Mary loved to volunteer at schools, teaching and inspiring students about the wonders of art and color. Her website is Maryzemanart.com, and I would love for people to continue to enjoy her artwork. Below is a photo of Mary’s last painting, which she never got to sign. Mary was always positive and inquisitive when she met someone new. Her smile was infectious, and she had beautiful blue eyes. She loved poetry, music and photography, and was a fantastic chef and baker. She was my world, she kept me on my toes and I adored her. Aside from being my terrific partner, Mary was also a doting dog mom. We would often walk our Dalmatian, Ella, all over parks and beaches, anywhere we traveled. 

Mary and I used to work with a guy who had kidney failure. He had two transplants, which his body unfortunately rejected, so he was surviving on weekly dialysis. Watching him through his journey inspired Mary and me both to update our licenses and become registered organ donors. 

Mary and I had just celebrated our 35th wedding anniversary when she passed away suddenly after a quadruple bypass. Interacting with We Are Sharing Hope SC throughout this process has renewed my decision to be an organ donor. Getting that phone call after Mary had passed away suddenly was surreal, but it gave me some solace in knowing that she could help others. My message to others is this: please register, don’t hesitate.”