Next month, Josh’s floral portrait, or floragraph, will be among 60 other organ, eye and tissue donors appearing on the Donate Life float in the Rose Bowl Parade in Pasadena, Calif.
The symbolic float, made of organic material, will be in the shape of a Polynesian catamaran propelled by 24 organ, tissue and eye recipients, with 12 living donors walking alongside carrying flowers. Ocean waves on the float will be comprised of 1,000 white Akito roses given in memory or honor of those touched by donation. Josh's floragraph will be displayed on one of the sails, and it will go back to his parents after the parade.
“We are proud that our son was able to save five lives through organ donation, and we are very excited that Josh was chosen to be a part of the parade,” Braswell said. “We are looking forward to attending the Donate Life ceremonies and events leading up to the parade on Jan. 2.”
In June 2003, Josh sustained injuries in an automobile accident and was life-flighted to USA Medical Center. His accident left his parents with a heart wrenching decision that would affect the lives of five other individuals. Josh’s parents honored his decision to be an organ donor – a decision that he often communicated with his family.
“This invitation to participate in the parade will be a great opportunity for us as a family to continue to spread the word about organ donation,” Braswell said. “If you have not already done so, please tell your loved ones how you feel about organ donation. Josh was in the medical field, and fittingly, his last act on Earth was to save five lives.”
Recently, representatives from the Alabama Organ Center gathered at the USA Faculty Club, along with Josh's family and friends, to complete a floral portrait of Josh. A video from the event can be found here - https://vimeo.com/193445874.
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For more information about the Donate Life Rose Parade float, visit donatelifefloat.org.
