I was so touched to receive this email inviting me to include my hero’s story for Donor Remembrance Day. It’s been almost 2 years and 4 months passed and the time warp can be unbearable at times when you’re missing your loved one. So getting the opportunity to share about them is very special. As I read the word “legacy “ in the email it made me think what truly is a legacy? I believe it is the long-lasting impact a person leaves when they are gone. It has nothing to do with the amount of time they were on earth but instead what they did in the time they had. My hero, my son, Jake Monzeglio, did more in his 20 years than most of us who have lived a life triple his. This sentiment has been expressed by so many that knew him. Jake was an old soul from the beginning. Showing early signs of grasping life without fear and without looking back. Independent and adventurous. Knowing he wanted to set his own path vs follow in someone else’s footsteps. And not just that, he wanted it fast. Always in a hurry; as if he knew his time was limited. Upon graduating high school he entered the workforce. He soon seized the opportunity to become a lineman, setting out to multiple states in need of cable restoration in hurricane ravaged areas. Jake was on a fast track to owning his own truck, equipment and operating under his own business license. Not without trials and tribulations he was on the road to success and excited about seeing the country while attaining his financial goals. Having a love for nature, the great outdoors and living off the land made a perfect match with the life of a lineman. He came back home for Christmas and was on his way to visit a friend when his dream was taken from him and our hearts were broken. Jake’s choice was to be an organ donor. So we honored his request. Each kidney was gifted to two recipients and I pray they continue to thrive. I believe that Jake’s legacy lives on in everyone fortunate enough to know him. Jakes free spirit, love of nature, loyalty to friends and uncompromising adherence to strong morals are his gifts he leaves for us to emulate in his honor. #LiveLikeJake #Legacy 💙🦋💙🦋
