Pediatric nurse extends her legacy of compassion and caring for others through organ donation

Madera, Calif. (Nov. 14, 2024) — A pediatric nurse, sister, generous volunteer, avid hiker and San Francisco Giants fan, Patrice Sanders lived her life giving her whole heart to everything she did. She was an identical twin and an older sister. Patrice grew up always wanting to become a nurse, and would practice her skills by taking her sisters’ temperatures when they were children.

Patrice achieved her goal and became a pediatric nurse at Valley Children’s Hospital where she cared for patients and their families for more than 36 years. She enjoyed caring for others and always respected the patients who gave the gift of life through organ donation. 

“Patrice was one of the most generous people you could meet,” said Paige Sanders, Patrice’s sister. “She donated money, she gave blood, she volunteered at her church and she made quilts for children at the hospital.”

After suffering a stroke in June 2024, Patrice’s health declined. She made her final wish clear to her family––she wanted to help others through organ donation.

“Patrice lived a life well-lived,” said Paige. “If she loved something, she was all-in. She made that so clear in wanting to be an organ donor and felt very strongly about it for many, many years. She would be pleased knowing that her final wishes were honored.”

A donor walk was held to honor Patrice at Community Regional Medical Center in Fresno, California before she went into surgery to donate her organs. Donor Network West facilitated the donation of Patrice’s kidneys, which went to patients on the national transplant waiting list. 

In 2023, Donor Network West facilitated the transplantation of 1,358 organs, providing a second chance at life for many northern California and northern Nevada residents. A single donor has the power to save up to eight lives through organ donation. Learn more about organ, eye and tissue donation here.