At just three weeks old, Addison McArthur was in the fight of her life. Born with a rare and severe heart condition, she was placed at the top of British Columbia’s transplant waiting list, critically ill and unlikely to survive without immediate intervention. Today, 14 years later, she’s not only thriving—she’s inspiring others through her incredible story of survival, gratitude, and the powerful connection she shares with her donor’s family.
Addison’s early diagnosis of left ventricular non-compaction cardiomyopathy—a condition that can lead to heart failure and fatal arrhythmias—shattered her parents’ world. Her mother, Elaine Yong, remembers the shock vividly: “As a new mom, you imagine playdates, milestones, school pictures. But in an instant, all those dreams were replaced with fear and uncertainty.”
But hope arrived on a day that’s deeply symbolic for mothers everywhere—Mother’s Day. That’s when the family got the life-changing call: a heart had been found for Addison.
While the identity of organ donors is kept confidential in both Canada and the U.S., fate—and a shared willingness to tell their stories—brought the two families together in the most heartwarming way imaginable.
A Mother’s Letter Finds the Right Heart
One year after Addison’s transplant, Elaine sent a heartfelt thank-you letter through her transplant center. To her surprise, the donor’s mother replied.
Felicia Hill, a young woman from Reno, Nevada, had lost her newborn daughter, Audrey Jade Hope Sullenger, just six days after birth due to unexplained causes. Choosing to donate Audrey’s organs, Felicia turned unimaginable loss into a legacy of hope. Audrey became the youngest organ donor in Nevada that year—her heart saved Addison’s life.
Felicia had come across Elaine’s blog while searching online, and recognized her story. On the anniversary of Addison’s transplant, she left a comment that would change everything: “I’m Addison’s donor mom.”
What followed was a heartfelt connection that blossomed into a unique and enduring friendship.
Two Families Become One
In 2013, the two families met in person for the first time at a Donate Life Walk in Santa Clara, California. The emotional meeting included an unforgettable moment—Felicia listening to her daughter’s heart beating inside Addison’s chest using a stethoscope Elaine had brought.
“I went in thinking it would be overwhelming,” Elaine said. “But instead, it felt peaceful. There was so much love and connection.”
Felicia agreed. “I felt nothing but joy. Knowing that another mother got to raise her child gave me peace. It’s why I share my story—to show how beautiful donation can be.”
Since then, their families have remained close. Addison affectionately calls Felicia “Auntie Felicia,” and the two families cheer each other on from across borders. In 2018, Felicia traveled to Vancouver to watch Addison compete in the Canadian Transplant Games. This year, she’ll be in the stands again as Addison heads to the World Transplant Games in Dresden, Germany.
Advocating for the Gift of Life
Inspired by her daughter’s journey and her bond with Felicia, Elaine transitioned from journalism to advocacy. She now works as a communications manager with BC Transplant, helping raise awareness about the life-saving power of organ donation.
Felicia, too, has found purpose in advocacy, regularly sharing Audrey’s story to encourage others to register as organ donors. Together, they speak at conferences and community events, showing the lasting impact one decision can make.
“I like to say organ donation is the ultimate act of love,” Elaine says. “You give without knowing who will receive. You hope, you trust—and sometimes, miracles happen.”
A Powerful Reminder During National Donate Life Month
Addison’s story comes full circle this April, as she celebrates her 14th birthday during National Donate Life Month—a time dedicated to spreading awareness about organ, eye, and tissue donation.
Nearly 3,500 transplants were performed in Canada in 2023, and over 100,000 people remain on waiting lists across North America. One donor can save up to eight lives. But the need still far outweighs the supply.
Addison’s life is a powerful testament to what’s possible when one family chooses to give another a second chance. And through the bond shared between Elaine and Felicia, this story becomes more than just about survival—it’s about love, legacy, and the lasting beauty of connection.
How You Can Help If you’re inspired by Addison’s journey, consider registering as an organ donor. You can do so through your local department of motor vehicles or online at organdonor.gov (U.S.) or blood.ca/en/organs-tissues (Canada).
One choice could change, and save, lives.
