Andrew Clay Johnson
Andrew was an awesome young man of just eleven years – a short life was filled with love for everyone he knew. His eyes were crystal blue and now they shine as stars in the night. He had a laugh that everyone wished they had, one that could make your belly hurt and a smile that could wrap around the world, his family and his teachers. A young man that for his size knew how to hug, oh how he genuinely wrapped those arms around you and left a wonderful feeling that you had been hugged by him and he meant it. His love and energy expanded into the great outdoors as he and his Dad loved to hunt turkey, deer and go fishing. Sports were another highlight in his life as he was a gifted athlete enjoying football, basketball and track. His teammates described by others as being forever touched and inspired. He loved spending time with family, grandparents and friends which most of the time he was the center of entertainment.
Andrew was involved in an ATV accident July 2008, and five days later pronounced brain dead. As he lay lifeless in the hospital bed his Mother recalls “it was as if whispers from our angel so profound and vivid….save someone else Mom – I CAN DO IT! The words never spoken but yet were so clear and strong to my ears.” The contact was made with the Kentucky Organ Donor Affiliates (KODA) and the feeling of a warm blanket was placed around us. The KODA team handled every situation with extreme reverence and compassion toward our family. Dark times led to a lighted path of giving – giving the ultimate gift of life. We know that Andrew is honored because, though in our tragedy and having to let him go, the outcome has spread into such a positive new form of life. Our family does have peace and comfort in knowing that a part of Andrew lives on in many. Born in the fifth month, completing fifth grade and in the end became an organ donor giving five lifesaving organs. Andrew was our champion and only child, he was truly Heaven sent.
Andrew’s legacy continues as his parents pledge to his classmates “The Andrew Johnson Marshall County High School Class of 2015 Scholarship”. Throughout the next four years numerous fund raising events will take place in his honor. Spring of 2015 those funds will be awarded to recipients of his graduating class providing them with hope and inspiration for their future wrapped with Andrew’s love.
-Shared by Andrew’s parents, Kevin & Susan Johnson
