FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) — Warm hugs, gentle smiles, and watery eyes filled the room at UCSF Fresno on Friday morning.
“Patrice lived as a nurse with her whole heart, and in death, she gave life. That is the definition of legacy,” Robb Smith said.
Friends and family members of the late Patrice Sanders gathered for a very special announcement by Donor Network West.
A portrait, known as a “floragraph,” will be displayed on the 2026 Donate Life float at the 137th Rose Parade honoring Sander’s.
“Her generosity continues today through the donation of her kidneys – saving two lives and through tissue donation, saving many more,” CRMC director of clinical care services Catrina Cullen said.
She passed away after suffering a stroke in June of 2024, but her spirit has lived on.
RELATED: Valley Children’s nurse donates organs after medical decline
Family, co-workers, friends, and patients of Sanders say her contagious energy, compassion, and care were unmatched on and off the clock.
“She didn’t have children of her own, but she poured love into the lives all around her,” Smith said. She built a family wherever she went. She created memories that will live on for generations.”
Everyone who went to the podium said they’re not surprised Sanders continues to be an inspiration to many.
She ended her life as an organ donor whose story has impacted more people than we will ever know. The lesson to learn from her life is to be generous and kind in all stages of life.”
And as a big Giants fan, her family was surprised with a custom jersey and special letter from the Major League Baseball Team.
“She will always be remembered as a true giant,” a family said while reading the letter.
Donor Network West says more than 20,000 Californians are on the organ transplant waiting list.
You can see the Donor Network float and the image honoring Sanders this New Year’s Day in the Rose Parade airing on ABC30 starting at 8 a.m.
For news updates, follow Elisa Navarro on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
Copyright © 2025 KFSN-TV. All Rights Reserved.