“We learned that her cornea recipients were seeing clearly and that their lives were improved. It brought tears to my eyes and I thought to myself, what a beautiful legacy she’s passed on,” said Tiffany’s mother, Althea.
Althea's Story
Not only was Althea Fogle a dedicated employee who helped heal lives in the community for more than 30 years at AltruVision, she is also the mother to Tiffany, a cornea donor who passed away tragically.
Tiffany was an extraordinary young woman, known for her memorable spirit, motivating personality and strong faith. An active student, she graduated from West Philadelphia High School with a resume full of accomplishments, including being named homecoming queen and elected class secretary.
After Tiffany passed away, Althea’s family was heartbroken. While they were unable to donate Tiffany’s organs, the decision to donate her eyes, bone and tissue was a given.
“Everyone at the Eye Bank watched Tiffany grow up. She was very familiar with the work we do, and she felt strongly about giving back. I knew we could donate her corneas and help to restore the vision of two individuals. We learned that her cornea recipients were seeing clearly and their lives were improved. It brought tears to my eyes and I thought to myself, what a beautiful legacy she’s passed on,” said Althea.
“Tiffany’s life wasn’t just a blessing to her family and the recipients who received her gift,” Althea explained. “She left a mark on many. When she passed on, the Cheyney community came together in ways we couldn’t imagine: holding candlelight vigils, busing students to her service and even presenting her an honorary BS degree in May 2013. I am so proud to say that Tiffany accomplished more in her short life than many ever will. She continues to live through the people she has helped—her family, her friends, her peers and her corneal recipients.”
A life-changing gift
Saying ‘yes’ to cornea donation can make a profound impact on someone’s life. AltruVision recognizes every donor and their family as heroes who define what it truly means to be altruistic.
Acknowledgement, however, isn’t always enough. Families often benefit from sharing more about the special person they have lost. In recognition of our selfless donors, AltruVision offers ways for donor families to pay tribute to their loved one or contact recipients of the Gift of Sight.
Heartfelt Letters and Quotes
Heartfelt Letters and Quotes is dedicated to the selfless donor families who make the Gift of Sight a reality for so many who would otherwise live in darkness. It is our sincere hope that this collection of heartfelt letters and quotes will serve as a reminder that our mission leaves a legacy of sight for thousands of grateful transplant recipients.
