Israeli Teenager's Tragic Death a Mixed Blessing

What began with the simple hopes of an average 16-year-old, ended on Sunday, October 14^th, with his vital human organs being transplanted into six patients, so that they could live, even though he could not.

The “He” in this story is Gilad Veturi, a student at Hod Hasharon’s Ilan Ramon High School, whose life was tragically cut far too short when, during a 60-metre sprint, he collapsed and died soon afterwards.

Gilad’s family donated their son’s life-saving organs on Sunday, October 14^th, and even his corneas will be used in a future transplant.

While the young Veturi - who left behind his parents and two brothers, has passed away, his heart will live on in 56-year-old man, while the teen’s lungs are now being used by two men in their 60s, while his liver will help a 64-year-old woman.

One of his kidneys, and his pancreas, now belong to a 36-year-old woman; the other kidney went to a 24-year-old woman.

The transplants took place Petah Tikva’s Rabin Medical Center- Beilinson Campus

“Gilad’s parents represent the beautiful Israel,” said Israeli Transplant director, Dr. Tamar Ashkenazi. “They are people who give, who are ready to help others and who, at a time of distress and terrible personal tragedy, are able to think about saving lives and giving organs.”