Signed My Heart Away on Our Anniversary

On my fifth wedding anniversary with Rebecca Leavitt, I sign an organ donation consent form.

My entire family opposed my decision.

Mom sobs as she slaps herself across the face. "This is all my fault. I'm useless. I couldn't make enough to pay for your heart transplant…"

Dad took an overnight train from our hometown. The moment he stepped inside, he knelt down in front of me.

"I'll sell my kidney on the black market. Please don't do this!" he pleads.

My younger sister, Winona Zander, tore the consent form to pieces, scattering the scraps across my face.