United with Hope
Helping donor families and recipients share, heal, and connect—one letter at a time.
Legacy of Life Hawai‘i recognizes the incredible gift shared between donor families and transplant recipients—a gift of life, love, and healing. While each journey is unique, many find comfort in reaching out through a letter. Whether you are a recipient wanting to thank your donor family or a donor family wishing to share about your loved one, connecting through words can be a meaningful part of the healing process.
United with Hope is our program designed to support this connection. From the first letter to the possibility of meeting in person, our team guides and cares for both sides of this sacred exchange.
Writing to a Transplant Recipient
The decision to write to your loved one’s recipient(s) is personal and heartfelt. For many donor families, sharing about their loved one—their spirit, personality, and the legacy they leave behind—offers a powerful way to honor them and find healing.
There is no timeline for writing. Whether it’s months or years later, you can write when it feels right. Anyone in your family may write, and we will always inform the immediate next of kin when correspondence is received or shared.
If you choose to write, our Family Services team is here to support you. Your message doesn’t need to be long or formal—just genuine.
Send A Letter to Your Loved One's Recipient
View Writing Tips
Writing to Donor Families
If you are a transplant recipient, or the loved one of someone who received a transplant, you may wish to express your gratitude to the family who gave the gift of life. Many donor families appreciate knowing that their loved one’s legacy lives on in a meaningful way.
Writing to your donor family can be an emotional step—one that takes time. When you're ready, our team can help guide you through the process with care, confidentiality, and compassion.
Start Your Letter to a Donor Family
When Both Sides Wish to Meet
While most connections begin with a letter, some donor families and recipients express interest in meeting one another. These reunions, while rare, can be incredibly healing and meaningful for those who feel ready.
Our United with Hope program was created to support this journey. Through counseling, preparation, and thoughtful coordination, we help manage expectations and care for the emotional needs of both families and recipients. Follow-up care is also provided after any meeting takes place.
If you are considering connecting beyond correspondence, please don't hesitate to reach out. We are here to help you every step of the way.
Learn More About The Meeting Process
Have Questions or Need Support?
Our Family Services Team is here to help. If the right words seem hard to find, or you have any questions or concerns about writing, please contact a Legacy of Life Hawaii Family Services Coordinator at familyservices@legacyoflifehawaii.org or (808) 599-7630.