In a scene filled with hugs, tears, and laughter, four people who received life-saving organ donations gathered together to honor the woman who gave them the greatest gift of all: a second chance at life.
That woman was 20-year-old Adelyn Miller, described by her family as adventurous, loving, and someone who made people laugh. She dreamed of becoming a paramedic one day. “She was very much about helping everybody else,” her mom, Vicki Wichmann Miller, said.
Even in death, that’s exactly what she did. After a tragic car accident in 2023, Adelyn’s organs saved five lives.
“I owe her my life,” said Dennis Golownia, who received her lungs.
“You saved my life and I’m eternally grateful,” added Kevin Enders, who now lives on with Adelyn’s liver.
Jack Feast, who received her heart, shared, “I just want her to know she’s changed my life.”
And for Suzie Dauer, who has Adelyn’s kidney, gratitude runs deep: “Hopefully, she could see it in my eyes, how grateful.”
On Saturday, the four came together with Adelyn’s family, forming what Vicki lovingly calls one big “Brady Bunch.”
For Vicki, the gathering was nothing short of healing. “Being able to meet her recipients has been extremely healing to me,” she said. “Oh man, I just miss talking to her.”
As part of the celebration, the group painted colorful rocks marked with QR codes linking to Adelyn’s story. The rocks will be placed across the world, spreading her legacy far and wide.
For Feast, who traveled from Illinois, it meant more than just honoring Adelyn, it also meant finding new family. “I feel like I’ve gained a whole new family with Vicki and everyone else that’s here in Minnesota,” he said. Enders, also from Illinois, agreed: “The fact we’re both still alive because of Adelyn is indescribable.”
Golownia, who lives in the Milwaukee metro, put it simply: “I can see the scars on my chest and I still think of her.”
Adelyn’s impact is undeniable. “She really impacted a lot of people,” her mom said.
Because of her, lives continue, families stay whole, and friendships have blossomed in her memory.
- How One Prison Book Sparked a Movement Bringing Hope to Cells Across America - November 25, 2025
- A Little Robot Bringing Big Joy: Canadian Center Celebrates Kids’ First Steps - November 25, 2025
- Inside the World’s First Dog Park for Disabled Dogs - November 25, 2025
