Loyola University Hosts Candle Lighting to Honor Organ Donors and Recipients

In a poignant gathering that illuminated the profound connections forged through organ donation, Loyola University Medical Center hosted its 33rd annual candle lighting ceremony, a tradition that honors the lives of donors, recipients, and those still waiting for a second chance. Amid the glow of flickering candles, stories of tragedy and triumph unfolded, reminding attendees of the enduring legacy of those who give the gift of life.

At the heart of this year’s ceremony was the story of Michael Galvin, a vibrant 30-year-old whose life was cut short by a fatal gym accident. Yet, in the wake of heartbreak, Michael’s family chose to turn their grief into hope, allowing his organs to be donated and saving multiple lives in the process. Among those profoundly touched by Michael’s generosity is Alex Alexander, a kidney recipient whose life had been teetering on the edge due to kidney failure. Now thriving, Alex stood alongside Michael’s family during the ceremony, sharing his gratitude and underscoring the transformative power of organ donation.

For Molly Galvin, Michael’s mother, the act of donation has been both a source of solace and a way to honor her son’s memory. “Michael was always someone who cared deeply about others,” she shared, her voice steady but tinged with emotion. “Knowing that he has given people a chance to live—there’s comfort in that.” Her words resonated deeply in the room, where families of donors and recipients alike gathered to reflect on the intricate web of lives touched by organ transplantation.

The ceremony also served as a stark reminder of the ongoing need for organ donors. With over 100,000 individuals in the United States currently waiting for life-saving transplants, the gap between those in need and available donors remains a sobering reality. It’s a gap that advocates like Molly Galvin and Alex Alexander are determined to bridge. Together, they have become vocal proponents for organ donation, urging others to consider the profound impact of this decision. “It’s not just about saving lives,” Alex remarked. “It’s about creating connections, about showing that even in loss, there can be hope and renewal.”

The evening was marked by moments of reflection, as attendees lit candles in memory of loved ones and in solidarity with those still waiting. The ceremony’s quiet dignity stood as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the ability to find light in the darkest moments. For many, it was a chance to celebrate the ripple effect of organ donation—a process that not only saves lives but also fosters a sense of community and shared purpose.

As the event drew to a close, the collective message was clear: organ donation is not merely a medical act, but a deeply human one. It is a gesture that transcends boundaries, linking families and individuals in ways that are both tangible and profoundly emotional. For Michael Galvin’s family and Alex Alexander, the bond they now share is a living testament to this truth. Their story, like so many others honored at the ceremony, speaks to the enduring impact of choosing to give life.

In reflecting on the evening, one cannot help but consider the broader implications of organ donation—not just as a means of saving lives, but as a catalyst for connection and compassion. The candle lighting ceremony at Loyola University Medical Center serves as a powerful reminder that even amidst loss, there exists the opportunity to create something enduring and beautiful. It is a call to action, urging us all to consider how we might contribute to the tapestry of hope that organ donation weaves.