Heart transplant recipient honors donor at Rose Parade

SAN DIEGO — A beating heart and kidney brought Harley Duffer and the Nurse family together through organ donation.

“It gives you the feeling that your loved one made a huge difference in this world and saved multiple lives despite the tragic loss of life,” said Nigel Nurse, Peyton Nurse's father. .

In 2022, Peyton Nurse died from injuries sustained in a car accident. At the time of his death, he had just completed his third year studying computer science at California State University, Northridge. Peyton's heart, lungs and kidneys were donated to three people, including Harley.

“This was actually Peyton's third heart transplant, and it was one of the best experiences. You know, I was dealing with survivor's guilt, all the depression and anxiety, but I was very grateful to the donor's family. “Meeting him helped me a lot,” Duffer said.

On New Year's Day, Hurley will ride on the “One Legacy Donate Life Rose Parade Float” next to Peyton's portrait. He grabbed a paintbrush and some supplies to help Peyton's loved ones put the finishing touches on the set of portraits that will be displayed on the float.

“It means so much to stay alive and spread awareness about organ donation,” Duffer said.

Peyton's mother, Leslie Nurse, described Peyton as a person full of energy and artistry. She said it meant a lot to her son to be recognized at this event.

“He'll love this theme. I know he's into origami and fun things, so he'll love this too,” Leslie said.

Peyton's loved ones will gather in the grandstands on New Year's Day to see his legacy live on.

“Just as love is eternal and never ends, Peyton's gift of life and love continues through organ donation,” Leslie said.

According to the organization LifeSharing, one person can save and strengthen the lives of up to eight people. If you would like to learn more, please visit here lifesharing.org