Northeast Iowa Woman, Two-Time Living Organ Donor, to Walk in Rose Parade New Year’s Day

A northeast Iowan will participate in the 2026 OneLegacy Donate Life Rose Parade Float in Pasadena, California, on New Year’s Day (01.01).

The Iowa Donor Network has selected April Wilson of Denver, Iowa, a two-time living donor, to be recognized as a Walker Honoree alongside the float. Wilson says her first donation of a section of her liver has extended the life of her mother beyond expectations.

Wilson says her selfish motivation to make that first organ donation led to her kidney donation to, at that time, a complete stranger.

Wilson has since met the recipient of her kidney donation, Lindsey, who lives in Wisconsin. In addition to giving the gift of life to others, Wilson says she’s benefitted as well.

Mom will be among the family members joining Wilson for the Rose Bowl Parade on Thursday.

To learn more about organ donation, visit iowadonornetwork.org, which also encourages those experiencing a mental health crisis or having thoughts of suicide, to reach out to the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline for immediate, confidential support.”