SAM MESSINA is the father of Matthew Messina, a 25-year-old U.S. Marine who tragically lost his life in a hit-and-run accident. Despite his dreams of aiding young children being cut short, his legacy lives on through organ and tissue donation. His gifts of organ and tissue donation helped save and heal the lives of over 100 recipients. Matt was a 2024 One Legacy Donate Life Rose Parade Floragraph honoree co-sponsored by MTF Biologics and Donor Network West.

LESLIE BARTEL, mother of AG Bartel, will share her family's journey through childhood cancer, chemotherapy, and limb salvage surgery. With heartfelt gratitude, Leslie will discuss the significance of a donated bone graft, which played a pivotal role in saving her daughter's life. Through their story, Leslie will inspire resilience and hope, showcasing the strength that emerged from adversity.