A Heartfelt Tribute: Honoring Lifesaving Organ Donors at the Rose Parade

In an inspiring display of gratitude and respect, the DMV and Donate Life California recently honored two remarkable organ donors, Raquel Armstrong and Zeida Woods, for their selfless acts of giving. Raquel made a life-changing decision to donate 60% of her liver to save her mother, who was battling cirrhosis of the liver. She faced numerous tests and challenges on her journey but persevered, putting family above all else. Zeida, on the other hand, accepted an honor on behalf of her late brother, Carlos, who donated his heart at the young age of 18.

Both courageous individuals will be celebrated during the upcoming 2026 Rose Parade in Pasadena, where Armstrong will represent living donors by walking alongside the Donate Life float. This float will send a powerful message about the beauty and transformative impact of organ donation. Adorned with flowers, birds, and butterflies, it symbolizes new life blossoming from selfless acts. These stories are reminders of the importance of giving back—who knew a parade could pack such a punch of emotion?

Raquel and Zeida’s experiences reflect the true essence of humanity and love. They illuminate the powerful legacies that organ donors leave behind, encouraging us all to think about our connections and the lengths we’d go for our loved ones.