In 2011, the Spiers family, from Haddonfield, NJ, faced the most difficult time of their lives. Their son, brother and friend, Kevin Spiers, was taken suddenly at the age of 22 after a tragic fall. “I said 100 Hail Mary’s on the way to the hospital, but I just knew in my heart that it was bad.” said Joan Spiers, Kevin’s mother.
Kevin, a graduate of Paul VI High School, was known for his willingness to help others, whether it was for family, a friend or someone he just met. He followed in his late father’s footsteps and became a member of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, Local #351. He was enrolled in its apprenticeship program to pursue his dream of becoming an electrician before he passed away. He was also active in his local parish.
The Spiers family decided that even though they were faced with a tremendous loss, they wanted to help make sure that other families didn’t have to suffer like they had. They decided to say ‘yes’ to donation. Kevin was able to benefit others by donating his corneas, tissues and heart valves. “It’s what Kev would have wanted. It’s how he lived his life,” his sister, Lauren, said.
“While it was a difficult time, we made the decision to donate his organs. That decision has brought us to the positive place where we are today.” — Joan Spiers
“We know Kevin lives on in other people and knowing that is comforting.” The family formed Team Spiers after Kevin’s passing, which consists of a group of his family and friends who work together to raise money for the Kevin P. Spiers Memorial Scholarship Fund. The scholarship fund was established in Kevin’s memory to raise money to help students with their Catholic School education.
The Spiers leaned heavily on their Catholic faith to get through the tragedy that shook their lives four years ago. Joan said, “I have had to rely on my faith many times in my life. When I lost Kevin, it truly tested it. My children and I needed so much strength to carry us through that time. It’s comforting to know that Kevin’s spirit of giving to others lives on in all of us as we continue to honor his memory. We know that heaven has another angel, and that angel smiles down on us every day.”
One of the most common misconceptions about registering as an organ donor is that one’s religion does not support it. In fact, all major religions, including Catholicism, support organ donation. Pope Francis described the act of organ donation as ‘a testimony of love for our neighbor’ when the Vatican hosted the European Organ Donation Day in October, 2014.
Giving of oneself and making the choice to help others is truly a gesture of love. Unfortunately today, there are still many untrue myths that prevent individuals from registering. Sadly, there are nearly 5,300 people in our region – and more than 115,000 nationally – whose lives depend on the kindness of strangers to make a choice that will give them a second chance at life. No final act is more heartfelt or caring than donating ones’ organs. It shows an individual’s compassion for others, and can change lives forever.