'Something beautiful came out of it': Family connects with organ recipient 1 year after daughter's death

CBS 58

DELAFIELD, Wis (CBS 58) -- It's been one year since Maranatha Baptist University student Hannah Glass died of a peanut allergy.

At the time of her death, her parents donated her organs saving four lives. 

On Monday, Nov 10, the Glass family met with one of the recipients for the first time.

"None of us wanted to be where we were. She didn't want to be in her position. We didn't want to be in ours, but something beautiful came out of it," said David Glass, Hannah's dad.

Inside Marty's Pizza in Delafield, two families came together for cheesy pizza, soda and hot chocolate. 

As they remember and celebrate the life of then 19-year-old Hannah Glass.

"Today we lost Hannah, today is the day that Abby in the same hospital had her life saved through Hannah's donation through our loss," David explained.

Last November, Hannah ate a brownie containing refined peanut flour. She had a severe allergic reaction and died days later. 

Hannah's dad says when they knew they were losing her, their attention turned those who they could save.

"When we were saying goodbye, we were also thinking about the other families. The people we didn't know gathering at hospitals nearby, for a surgery to have their life saved," said David.

Hannah was able to donate four primary organs her heart, liver, kidneys and pancreas.

Vital organs that saved the lives of four people including Abigail Krakau.

"They called and they said there's a match. I think you have to come over here in the hospital," said Abigail.

Krakau waited three years before receiving the lifesaving kidney and pancreas.

"It means a lot to me because before I couldn't really do anything," said Abigail.

Hannah's mom, Janean Glass, says in the midst of their grief they took comfort in knowing their daughter would want to help others, even in death.

"It was just obvious that that's what Hannah would've wanted us to do was donate her organs because that was going to help other people. That's who she was," said Janean. 

However, after the surgery something unexpected happened. 

"Abby's first question to ask was, 'Did your daughter like hot chocolate?' And we said yes, Hannah loved hot chocolate," said David.

A sweet treat she never craved before.

"I woke up in the hospital and then I told my husband like I'm craving for chocolate," said Abigail.

For the Glass family, it's as if a piece of their daughter's spirit lives on.

"This is a second life to me it means a lot to me. I get a family now," said Abigail.

In honor of their daughter, the Glass family started the nonprofit, Hannah Helps. 

They help those dealing with food allergies, loss of a loved one, and organ donation awareness. If you want to donate, click here 

To stay up to date on upcoming events and more click here 

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