Left: Jose Zaragosa holds photos of his late son, Matt, in Pasadena on Jan. 1, 2009. With him are his wife, Zona, and their children, Mark, Katrina and Kristy. Right: Jose wears Matt’s football jersey as he and other survivors of donor family members ride on the “Stars of Life” float in the Tournament of Roses parade.

Matt’s Gifts

Family of late football player responds to loss with affirmation of life

Jose Zaragosa is a journeyman Clerk at Raley’s in Manteca, Calif.

He, his wife, Zona, and their children, Mark, Katrina and Kristy, endured a family tragedy that is a parent’s nightmare. What they have done with their lives since then is a moving testament to human endurance and the strength of their characters.

Jose’s son (and Katrina’s twin), Matt, was a football player at East Union High School in Manteca. In 2005, he suffered a devastating sports injury on the field and later passed away in an area hospital.

In the midst of their terrible loss, they made the decision to donate his organs, beginning an enduring commitment to work for the California Organ Donor Network.

Matt was a fan of the University of Texas Longhorns, hoping to attend college there and play for the team. When they learned of Matt’s injury, the team’s members sent him autographed pictures, a 2005 championship jersey and their good wishes. Although Matt never got to see the gifts, his family was deeply touched by the gesture.

On Jan. 1, 2009, Jose rode in the Tournament of Roses parade in Pasadena on a float called “Stars of Life,” sponsored by the Organ Donor Network. Riding with Jose were other survivors of family members who had donated organs. All carried photographs honoring their lost loved ones. Jose wore Matt’s East Union High School football jersey.

The Zaragosas frequently speak to groups about the California Organ Donor Network. They also keep in touch with some of Matt’s donor recipients.

The youngest of these recipients, named Sara, recently had a baby. Matt’s liver made the lives of both mother and child possible. “That’s how we keep Matt alive,” Jose said. “Sometimes you have to get the strength to be tough, but sometimes I still cry.” Jose is grateful to UFCW 8 for its support throughout the ordeal. “When this happened, the Union was right there to help,” he said.

Official publication of UFCW 8-Golden State Jacques Loveall, President