Helping Justyn Carry On

Donna Peavy’s family has been touched by organ and tissue donation from multiple angles. Donna received donor tissue to repair two torn ACLs, and an extended family member received a liver transplant.

When Donna’s son, Justyn Meyer, got his driver license, he registered as an organ donor.

“He looked at me when he was asked if he wanted to be an organ donor, and I told him it was his decision,” Donna said. “He registered on his own.”

Justyn was an avid computer gamer who graduated from Lecanto High School and took classes at College of Central Florida. He worked in Publix’s deli for a little more than a year, becoming many customers’ favorite employee.

“Customers waited in line for him,” Donna said. “He always earned free subs because the customers loved him so much.”

When Justyn was just 21 years old, he was killed in a tragic car accident in Ocala.

Justyn generously donated five organs to recipients ranging from 26 to 61 years old, and he enhanced many more lives through tissue and cornea donation.

“After Justyn passed away, I registered as a donor,” Donna said. “I had been one of the people who didn’t want to, but after he passed, I saw how much good it can do to donate. I’ve had multiple family members register since Justyn’s death. They’re amazed with how many people donation can help and save.”

Donna volunteers with LifeQuest Organ Recovery Services, often speaking at high schools and registration events to share the importance of organ donation.

“From the beginning, the healthcare workers were all caring, compassionate individuals, especially on the LifeQuest end,” Donna said. “They helped me through every step I needed help with. I want to give back to the organization that helped my son carry on.”