In May of 2022, Tony Rivera suddenly passed away from injuries sustained in a solo car accident where he was ejected from his vehicle, and suffered traumatic brain injuries at the young age of 25.

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In 25 short years, Tony lived a full life. He had many family and friends, and his family transcended blood lines.  He was known for sending humorous videos, had a contagious laugh, and would light up a room with his smile.  He was the life of the party, often creating a party where ever he went.

 

He ran a successful landscaping business with his step brother and loved country music; his favorite country artist being Chris Stapleton. Tony also loved motorcycles and his truck, which he often worked on in his spare time. He loved all sports but took particular interest in the Philadelphia sports teams.

 

More specifically he was a passionate fan of the Philadelphia Eagles.  There are many pictures of Tony sporting his Eagles gear throughout the years.  From his birth to his final rest attire - he loved the Philadelphia Eagles.  Fly Eagles Fly!

 

Throughout his life, Tony was always known to help others: friends, family, and even strangers. It didn't matter how big or small the task, he was ready to roll up his sleeves and lend a helping hand.  He even gave the shirt off his back to help his friend who was cold one evening.

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So it wasn't surprising that Tony's final act of love, compassion, and kindness was by donating his organs through the Gift of Life Donor Program.  He elected to be an organ donor by checking the all important box when he first obtained and later renewed his driver's license.

 

When Tony ultimately became a donor, he was able to save 3 lives, and provided 229 bone, skin and tissue grafts in order to enhance many others lives.  His donations were a direct representation of his character and reflected how he lived his life - always willing to help others. Some of the medical facilities known to receive Tony's many donations are in the following states: California, Colorado, Georgia, Idaho, Minnesota, New Jersey, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Tennessee and Texas.

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Through his many donations, Tony was able to save the life of a man in his fifties who received his liver, a woman in her forties who received his left kidney, and a man in his thirties who received his right kidney. 

 

By donating bone, he will help treat between 50 and 100 patients who could be facing the functional loss of a limb due to cancer, trauma, or other diseases.  Donated bone will also help individuals restore spinal function, which will allow them to walk without numbness or pain.

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Tony's donated skin will be used for burn victims, which can prevent life threatening infections, scarring, and also help decrease recovery time. The connective tissue he donated, such as tendons and ligaments will be used for joint reconstruction, tendon repair, knee surgeries or athletic related injuries.

 

Although Tony did donate corneas, vein and heart valves, these loving donations were unfortunately unable to be used for transplantation.  ​

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Despite his unexpected departure, this last heroic act of love, kindness, and compassion reminds us how selflessly Tony lived his life.  It also reminds us how important is it to live life as he did - by having deep compassion for others, always having love in your heart and soul, and always willing to show kindness and respect to others.  

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Therefore, we established this foundation to carry on Tony's legacy of love and help to others! Our hope is to keep his name alive and continue to provide his community with positive experiences in his honor!

 

Tony Rivera is a true hero to many and has left a lasting and beautiful legacy! 

With Courage, Integrity, Respect, Resilience, Service, and Loyalty, we welcome you to A Hero's Legacy - The Tony Rivera Foundation