My Son Became an Organ Donor to Save My 5 Year Old Daughter On Her 18th Birthday, She Received a Card That Said, Happy Birthday, Little Sister

“Our son told me about Hannah. About the liver transplant. About the risks. He said the doctors mentioned a chance he might not wake up.” Victor’s voice cracked. “He asked me to come. Just to be there. To get tested, at least.”

“And you didn’t.”

“I didn’t.” He looked at the porch boards. “I was angry he’d found me. I told myself he had you and didn’t need me. I said no.”

“Before Luke left the diner,” Victor continued, “he asked me one thing. He said, ‘If something happens to me, promise you’ll give Hannah this card on her 18th birthday.’ He handed me an envelope. He said he’d like me to include a recent photo of her. Our son wanted her to know he was still with her.”

I couldn’t speak.