Before his life was tragically cut short, 25-year-old Mark Puckett was always full of energy, love, and adventure.
“Never once did I question my place in Mark’s life,” said his mother, Anne Puckett. “If you were in Mark’s life, you were a treasure to him. He loved his friends, family, and God with a passion. He would do anything for anyone! His greatest joy was making every day an adventure. Everyone should enjoy life the way Mark did!”
Following an ATV accident, Mark suffered a traumatic brain injury — but due to CPR performed by his friends until help arrived, he did not lose oxygen to any parts of his body. In the end, Mark’s decision to be an organ donor would keep his legacy alive for many years to come.
“While we didn’t get the miracle we wanted, God has surely provided miracles to so many people through Mark,” said Puckett. “HonorBridge said that he was a rare donor because of his age and physical condition. We are extremely grateful for the ability to help others because of the quick action of knowledgeable people. He never suffered for a minute and died riding his four-wheeler— just one of the many action sports he enjoyed. All his life was action!”
Mark’s love of life left an indelible mark on all who knew him — and his loved ones find solace in knowing that Mark’s gift of life has made a lasting impact. A parade of balloons, decorated with prayers for the recipients and their families, followed him as he was taken to the OR for organ procurement.
“The ability to know that Mark has helped save others is what has kept me going,” said Puckett. “Mark would give anything to anyone, it was just his nature, and I am comforted to know that he has. I picture another mother asking for a miracle for her child and smile knowing that Mark was able to help her.”
Puckett has contacted many of Mark’s recipients and is aware of the life-changing impact his gift has had on their lives.
“I would like to encourage everyone who has received an organ donation to please reach out to the donor family,” said Puckett. “It has helped us so much to know that the recipients are living their best lives. That was our prayer and all that we wanted.”
More than 100,000 people are waiting for lifesaving organ transplants. Together, we can make a difference. Register your decision here: https://bit.ly/3hmiWKE
