SAN DIEGO — A beating heart and a kidney has brought Harley Duffer and the Nurse family together through organ donation.
“The feeling that it gives you that your loved one made such a difference in this world that they saved multiple lives right with the tragic loss of their life,” Peyton Nurse's Dad Nigel Nurse said.
In 2022, Peyton Nurse died from his injuries following a car accident. He had just completed his third year studying computer science at California State University Northridge when he passed away. Peyton’s heart, lungs and kidneys were donated to three people including Harley.
“This is actually my third heart transplant came from Peyton and it is been one of the best experiences. You know, struggling with survivor's guilt and all of the depression and anxiety but meeting the donor family has helped me tremendously,” Duffer said.
On New Year's Day, Harley will ride in the ‘One Legacy Donate Life Rose Parade Float,’ next to Peyton’s portrait. With a paintbrush on hand and some supplies, he helped Peyton’s loved ones add the final touches to the portrait set to be displayed on the float.
“It just means so much to get to continue living on and spreading awareness for organ donation,” Duffer said.
Peyton is described by his mom Lesley Nurse as someone full of energy and artistic. She said it means a lot to have her son honored at this event.
“He would love the theme, you know he was into origami and fun and so he would love this,” Lesley said.
On New Year's Day, Peyton's loved ones will be on the grandstand to see Peyton’s legacy live on.
“Just like love is eternal and it never ends, even Peyton’s gift of this life and love is continuing through organ donation,” Lesley said.
According to the organization Lifesharing, one person can save and enhance up to eight lives. To learn more visit lifesharing.org