McKinney has five blocks of hand-painted and embroidered images submitted by families of organ donors in northern Nevada. Each square tells a story about the donor and the design. McKinney s square pays tribute to her son Mark, who perished in an accident and who gave his heart, lungs, kidneys, cornea, pancreas and tissue that helped to improve 70 people s lives. The quilt is an emotional reminder of those who have saved or enhanced thousands of lives through organ and tissue donation. The National Donor Quilt is composed of squares that are individually designed by family members of organ and tissue donors and stitched together by National Donor Family Council Founder Margaret Coolican.
Families embrace the idea of creating a lasting tribute to their loved ones.
McKinney would like more families of organ and tissue donors to participate in the Silver State s quilt. Families can call the Reno Transplant Network at 324-4501 for additional information. Once the quilt is completed, it will be on display at the Sierra Eye and Tissue office at 1130 Ryland Street. No special talent is necessary. Start with a paper pattern and make changes until you are satisfied with you creation.