Disney World Celebrates the Gift of Life with Georgia Bulldog Fans. Megan Twist and Richard Bremer were recognized by Walt Disney World Resort for their heart-warming bond that is driving increased organ donations.
“Megan was the biggest Georgia Bulldogs fan there was, so it’s great to know that her name is always going to be associated with this award,” said Twist’s sister, Carolyn Hostetler. “She’s my hero and I know she’s Richard’s hero as well.”
Florida Gators fan Richard Bremer’s life was saved by a lung transplant from a young University of Georgia fan, Megan Twist. This experience led Bremer to switch his allegiance to the Georgia Bulldogs and inspired him to become an advocate for organ donation.
The Disney Spirit Award
Bremer and Twist’s family were recently honored with the Disney Spirit Award, which recognizes inspirational figures in college football. They are the 29th recipients of the award, and the first with ties to the University of Georgia. Their story was featured on ESPN’s College GameDay, raising awareness about organ donation.
“Everyone at Walt Disney World was deeply moved by Richard and Megan’s incredible story,” said ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex vice president Adam Ball. “They are an inspiring example of the strength and compassion it takes to help others and it’s our honor to recognize both of them with this year’s Disney Spirit Award.”
Bremer’s story
In 2012, Bremer was diagnosed with a degenerative lung disease and needed a lung transplant. After a four-year wait, he received a life-saving transplant from Twist, a 23-year-old who had registered as an organ donor just a few months before she died in a car accident.
Touched by Twist’s story, Bremer decided to switch his football loyalty to the Georgia Bulldogs in her honor. He and Twist’s family have since become dedicated to raising awareness for organ donation.
Twist’s family
Twist’s sister, Carolyn Hostetler, also works to honor her sister’s memory. She is a hospital development specialist with LifeLink of Florida, a non-profit that helps people through organ and tissue transplantation.
A life-changing experience
Bremer and Twist’s story is an inspiring example of the power of organ donation to save lives and bring hope to those in need. Bremer says that Twist is with him every day, and that he is grateful for the opportunity to celebrate her life and legacy.
Disney World Celebrates the Gift of Life with Georgia Bulldog Fans
