According to Donate Life Ohio, every other day an Ohioan dies waiting for a transplant, ONN's Lot Tan reported Thursday.

Family Makes Tough Decision

"It's something you never get over," said Melissa Holliday. "She was my best friend. It's a comfort knowing her story didn't stop when she died."

Dee Dee Mitten, 23, looked forward to getting married to her long time boyfriend, having kids and pursuing her career.

Her story was not supposed to be over. She had a bright future ahead of her.

"She slid on a patch of ice, and hit a tree," Holliday said. "She was flown by Air Care to University Hospital. When we arrived, things didn't look good."

Doctors told Holliday that her younger sister was brain dead.

"I didn't want to deal with the fact she could die," Holliday said.

In 1991, Holliday lost her younger sister, but her family's decision to donate Dee Dee's organs helped others get a second chance at life.

"My sister saved four lives through the gift of organ donation," Holliday said.

Mom Gets Second Chance At Life

"New organ's saved my life instantaneously. I could not believe it," said Monica Achberger. "I woke up and felt like my energy was amazing. Oh my gosh, my cheeks were so pink."

Achberger got the second chance at life through organ donation. The artist was first diagnosed with kidney disease in 1982.

"John, my future husband, visited me every day in the hospital, and brought me a rose every day," Achberger said.

Both of Achberger's kidneys were failing and doctors said she needed a transplant. Once again, her husband came to the rescue.

"Turns out he was a very good match," Achberger said.

It was a good match indeed. They've been married for more than 26 years and have two sons.

"After my transplant, I had a renewed sense of purpose in life," Achberger said.

Teenage Boy Still Waiting For Transplant

"Regardless of what happens, I know these two boys are going to be fine," said Temple Parker.

Caleb Parker, 13, got a kidney transplant. His older brother Kyle is still waiting for a transplant.

Kyle Parker said he is not scared of the surgery and hospitalization needed to undergo a transplant.

"Not really because I know what to do," Kyle Parker said. "I was there with my brother when he had his."

Kyle Parker is in fair condition even though both his kidneys have failed him. He's still doing the things most 16-year-old boys enjoy.

He dreams of playing in the NBA like his favorite player LeBron James.

To keep that dream alive he needs someone to donate a kidney. When he gets it, he knows exactly what he'll do first to celebrate.

"Eat everything," said Kyle Parker. "I want a burger, fries, and a chocolate shake."

Three families, three stories, three lives touched by organ donation.

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