West Virginia 2-year-old honored for organ donation

CHARLESTON, W.Va. (WOWK) – A two-year-old who fought for her own life is now giving the gift of life to others.

Family, friends and first responders lined the hallway of CAMC Women’s and Children’s Hospital in Charleston on Monday to show their support for Seilah, the little girl donating her organs.

“There were a lot of people there and it meant a lot to the family,” said Cheryl King, West Virginia outreach coordinator for CORE (Center for Organ Recovery and Education).

They all took part in the so-called “walk of honor,” which honors patients like Seilah who, in their final moments, give others the gift of life.

“Seilah was able to give in her short life than most of us will be able to give in a lifetime,” King said. “And that always brings great comfort to families – knowing that their loved one is still alive and that their life is not over.”

Charleston sister station WBOY 13 News spoke with Seilah’s grandmother, who said the family has experienced a lot of love and support this past week. She said it is comforting to know that their perfect child is now a perfect angel, living through the gift of life for others.

According to King, more than 100,000 people are waiting for organ donation. Every day, 17 people die throughout the country due to the lack of an organ. That’s why King encourages anyone who can to donate.

“It would mean a lot to this family if people would register in their daughter’s honor and they could do that on CORE.org,” she said.

Even though Seilah’s life was cut short, she will continue to make an impact on others, and King hopes she will bring comfort to her family in their time of need.

“We always want our donors’ families to know that their loved one will not be forgotten because he is a hero,” she said.

HEK Productions, a Charleston-based photography agency, is hosting mini shoots this week to raise money for Seilah’s funeral services. You can message them on Facebook to schedule a session.

There is also an online Meal Train fundraiser where you can support the family with meals and monetary donations.