“When they told me he was brain-dead, I doubted it, but at the same time I know there are many people and mothers waiting for a donor. It’s about putting yourself a little in someone else’s shoes”. – Jonas Duarte’s mother, who agreed to donate his organs to save the lives of five people

Jonas Rafael Duarte was 23 years old when he died while playing soccer.

In Las Heras, his mother, Mónica, received the news that he was brain-dead and had to make a decision amid her grief. At first, she hesitated. Then she thought of the families waiting for a donor and the children who need a chance. “It’s about putting yourself a little in someone else’s shoes”, she told 0223.

The family agreed to donate his organs, and the decision helped save five lives. Mónica was still waiting to learn the age and sex of those who received them, but she already felt proud of Jonas: she was sure he would have agreed too, just like his siblings. She hoped that more people, even in the midst of grief, could help save lives.