His Name Means "Gift of Hope"
Cynthia London named her son Sipho Thembla - a South African name meaning "gift of hope." Sipho was my gift, and he brought hope to six other people at his death. Sipho was an organ donor.
My story, my journey all started on March 24, 1997 - a day that would change my heart forever. My son was the victim of a senseless shooting. When our family arrived at the hospital, we watched him and remembered how he had been - so strong, so full of potency, and so loved. He was a gifted student, a proud father, and a compassionate son. After we prayed and hoped for a miracle that did not come, we let him go peacefully and donated his organs, so others could have a second chance at life.
Zoom+ Through organ donation, Sipho Tembla saved the lives of several others.
I believe that organ and tissues donation works not only for the transplant recipients but also for the donor family members. Sipho's death was so senseless, so hard to bear, and it broke my heart. His life was silenced, and on that day, some of me went with him. But I continue to tell my story to encourage others to get involved so that those who are waiting will have a second chance. I am excited, and I did not think I could like that ever feel that way again.
After we prayed and hoped for a miracle that did not come, we let him go peacefully and donated his organs so others could have a second chance at life.
It has been 12 long years, but thanks to the Creator, my family, and the wonderful people at the Gift of Life, I am able to tell this story with love and passion.
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