Afterlife: Six people alive and well thanks to Phoenix-area organ donor

Six people in the Phoenix area are alive and well thanks to a young Mesa organ donor who died in 2014.

Apr 5, 2016, 2:39 PM Updated: 3:35 pm

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PHOENIX — Six people in the Phoenix area are alive and well thanks to a young Mesa organ donor who died in 2014.

Marissa “Roo” Pummill, an avid animal lover and artist, passed away at her home in Mesa on Oct. 18, 2014. Days later, a man who had waited 13 years for the right match learned that he would finally receive a kidney transplant.

“I always knew it could be that call, but I don’t think you are ever completely ready for that call when it comes,” Nelly told the East Valley Tribune. “Roo lived in Mesa, the kidney was in the state of Arizona, just 10 miles from where I live.”

Marissa’s mother, Kellye Pummill, began volunteering at Donate Network of Arizona to raise awareness for the need of donors.

“Obviously I want to keep Roo’s memory alive,” Pummill said.

According to Donor Network of Arizona, more than 2,400 men, women and children are waiting for a life-saving donor transplant.

“Not only does donation help those who receive a transplant, but donor families also find hope and comfort in knowing that their loved one lives on through donation,” Jacqueline Keidal, a network spokeswoman, told the Tribune.

“Because of donation, I’ve seen students graduate, athletes return to the game they love, and families who, in their darkest moment, find a glimmer of hope in knowing their loved one will leave an amazing impact on this world through their generous gifts. If a person values giving and compassion and kindness, I encourage them to register as a donor,” said Keidal.

The Arizona Diamondbacks and Donor Network of Arizona will commemorate the 10th Annual Donate Life day on April 10 at Chase Field. Keidal told the Tribune that more than 900 people are expected to attend the event.

For more information on the event, visit DonateLifeattheDbacks.org