Oklahoma Organ Donor, Advocate To Walk In Tournament Of Roses Parade

Their friendship was forged out of heartbreaking loss and grew stronger after a kidney transplant. Now one of them is walking in the Tournament of Roses Parade.

Wednesday, December 31st 2014, 8:30 pm

By: News On 6


Their friendship was forged out of heartbreaking loss and grew stronger after a kidney transplant.

We told you about Stephanie Baker and Cheryl Manley's life-changing story last October.

10/8/2014 Related Story: Tulsa Organ Donor Advocates Practice What The Preach

Now one of them is about make history at Thursday's Tournament of Roses Parade in Pasadena, California.

Each of the ladies lost a child and donated that child's organs.

The pair met in a parent support group, became friends, and they have been advocates for organ donation for years.

So when Stephanie developed kidney disease, and Cheryl was a match, there was never a question.

"Of course I would donate, why would I not? She's my friend. I love her," Cheryl said.

They agreed if circumstances were reversed, the decision would be the same. In fact, they agree on almost everything; except who to root for during Bedlam.

But one thing the friends won't be arguing over is the Tournament of Roses Parade, where Cheryl will walk alongside the Donate Life float that will feature a floragraph of her daughter, Amanda.

“I'm the only living donor ever to walk the parade with the Donate Life float with the floragraph of my daughter on the float,” she said.

It's a first for Donate Life and for the parade.

"I also get the pleasure of putting a rose on that float for her son Cody and one for my daughter Amanda so I'm looking forward to that," said Cheryl.

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