Slain teen honored for being organ donor

CABARRUS COUNTY, N.C. — A teenager who was shot and killed in Charlotte this week was honored for his decision to donate his organs.

[Slain son of local deputy is Charlotte's 100th homicide victim of 2019]

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Family members of Nathaniel "Nate" Isenhour told Channel 9 that he was given an organ donation walk Wednesday afternoon.

A spokesperson for LifeShare, which is the organ procurement organization coordinating the organ recovery, explained that the walk is a beautiful way for family members to honor and accompany their loved ones on their way to the operating room.

Oftentimes, family, friends and hospital staff members will flank the hospital walls along the path to the operating room where the donor's organs will be removed.

Isenhour's former football coach, Michael Landers, told Channel 9 that so many people showed up to honor Isenhour, the area was filled to capacity.

"It's such a tragic moment, but the fact that, within 24 hours, this family has spun it into hope for other families and obviously life for other families, it's amazing," Landers said. "(His) light will forever burn now for the families who're receiving his organs. I hope a little semblance of him will burn on in their lives, as well."

Cabarrus County Sheriff Van Shaw also offered support to Isenhour's family. The sheriff said Isenhour's father has worked for his department for 20 years.

"It's hit everyone exceptionally hard," Shaw said. "We're gathering around him and his family, and we're going to be there to support them, and I just ask the community to keep them in their prayers."

Family members of Isenhour told Channel 9 a memorial will be held at a later time.

CLICK HERE for more information and how to register as an organ donor.

Cox Media Group