James D. Clay

The Gift of Life

I received a letter today from the eye bank on regards to my son James Clay. He was a miracle for us from day one. He loved life and never met any one he didnt call his friend. He loved animals, the outdoors, talking on the telephone and spending time with his family and friends. James went to be with God at the age of six on February 3, 2007.

James had multiple open heart surgeries but nothing slowed him down. He was born with a heart defect that was repaired by lengthy stays in the U of M Motts Childrens Hospital in Ann Arbor, Michigan. He was always happy and smiling. He never turned away from any one, he was always willing to try and help in any way he could.

The doctors say he would have needed a heart and lung transplant before the age of 25. If James wouldve received that from someone words would have never expressed the thanks that we would have felt. We felt it was very important to give back something that would help someone the way that so many people helped James. I received a letter today stating that two young men were given a second chance at sight because of the gift that James gave. I am very pleased and my heart is so warm knowing we were able to help in this way. James is in heaven now but his memory will live on in the hearts of so many forever.