Carolyn Henry Glaspy: A Mom’s Courageous Decision to Give the Gift of Life by Ashley Benton

In 2009 I met a very beautiful, brave woman that turned her tragedy into a triumph. My father, James Benton, was a very giving person. He helped strangers, he helped homeless people, he helped his family members including brothers, sisters, cousins and also helped coworkers in their times of need. He rarely said no to anyone.

Years later, my dad became ill with a liver disease and his only means of survival was through a liver transplant. In 2009, NFL player Chris Henry (Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver) was involved in a fatal accident. His mother, Carolyn Henry Glaspy, made the courageous decision to donate Chris’ organs to save lives.

At that time my dad was in the same hospital with a life expectancy of 24 hours. The love that this mother had for her son was overwhelmingly felt by the hospital staff. Mrs. Glaspy wanted her son to help others even after his passing. She wanted her son to live on. With that decision she helped four families, including mine, have a better life.

We met her in 2010 (watch the video above, The Legacy of Chris Henry). Although my dad passed away 17 months later, she gave me a gift of more time with him. From one mom to another, thank you!

This video is longer than 30 seconds, but we think it's worth it.

Take 30 seconds and join the 30Seconds community. Inspire and be inspired.