Former NFL defensive end Roniell Whitaker, known for his tough play and leadership, continued to help people even after his retirement. His organs saved four people — an act that his family and loved ones call a logical extension of his character, writes xrust. Whitaker died on February 22 at the age of 46, his family announced through the Minnesota Vikings press office.
A leader on the field — and beyond
The family's statement emphasized that Whitaker was always a person who led the way and pulled others along with him. He grew up in Virginia, where he played for Lake Taylor High School and then became a key player for the Virginia Tech Hokies. His tenacity, discipline and ability to lead the team forward left a significant mark on university football.
Two months after his death, his partner Laurie Charboneau said that Whitaker had made the decision in advance to become an organ donor. He remained on life support at M Health Fairview's Donor Care Unit while specialists searched for recipients.
“He was always the one who goes first”
Charboneau remembers Whitaker taking coaching as seriously as he took the game.
“Ronell loved coaching high school kids. He told parents: «I'm not just a coach. I'm a mentor. If something happens to the children, I'm there.» He always tried to help. And I’m sure he was thinking the same thing when he checked the organ donor box,” she told M Health Fairview.
Speaking to KARE, she added that Whitaker «loved his family, loved his community and would be happy to know that his life continues in other people.»
Four saved lives and a heart donated to science
class=»notranslate»>__GTAG7__ Although the details of the donation were not disclosed, Charboneau confirmed that lungs were among the organs donated, which have helped several patients.
“I think about those people and their families. I hope their health is improving. He would be proud,” she said.
Separately, she noted that Whitaker's heart was given to science — a decision she called «incredible and worthy of his character.»
Life after sports: coach, entrepreneur, mentor
After completing his career in the NFL Whitaker remained in Minnesota, where he played for the Vikings. He also played for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Detroit Lions, but it was Minneapolis that became his home. Here he coached the school's football team and founded his own company, Whitaker Group, LLC.
For many teenagers, he became a person who helped not only on the field, but also in life — and this, according to Charboneau, makes his act even more symbolic.
Donor Aid Department: work that saves lives
Whitaker's M Health Fairview Donor Care Unit was created in partnership with LifeSource and celebrated its first anniversary in April. His job is to guide donors and their families to ensure the process is as respectful and humane as possible.
“Our goal is to honor the donor and his loved ones,” said Chief Nurse Erin Schaden. “We are doing everything to ensure that their gift is used to the maximum, and that the family feels supported in one of the most difficult moments.”
Charboneau admitted that the work of the employees inspired her to become an active supporter of organ and tissue donation. She hopes Whitaker's story will encourage others to make the same decision.
By news feed https://people.com
Xrust NFL player Roniell Whitaker saved four lives by becoming a donor after death
