Ruth Peterson is fundraising
Honor Aaron Gerbo: Support Organ Donation
On June 14th, 2024 at 11:02 AM, my brother Aaron Gerbo was in a tragic motorcycle accident with his 10-year-old in Marion, Iowa. In his final moments, he protected her—absorbing the impact, softening the blow, ensuring that she walked away with only minor injuries.
That morning changed everything. It was the first moment of a sorrow so deep, we’re still learning how to live with it. But in that darkness and the chaos of those days, my little brother Aaron became a hero. Not only did he save his daughter, He was an organ donor. His final act gave life to others.
A video of his hero walk went viral, reaching millions and showing the world just how powerful donation can be, not only to the recipients, but to grieving families as well.
Since his passing, I’ve become a volunteer speaker for the Iowa Donor Network—sharing our story to help other families understand how organ donation can bring meaning in the midst of unimaginable loss. But this year, I wanted to do something more.
On the one-year anniversary of Aaron’s death, my daughter and I are walking the Camino Inglés—a 75-mile pilgrimage that ends at the Cathedral in Santiago de Compostela, Spain. We’re walking it in his honor. To redefine June 14th. To reclaim it—not as the day we lost him, but as a day we celebrate life, love, and legacy.
This walk is deeply personal for me. Years ago, I was told I wouldn’t be walking by the time I turned 60. I have a bad back and I’ve lived with chronic pain. But I fought for my health. I lost 100 pounds. I strengthened my body. And now, I’m walking this ancient path—not just in memory of my brother, but to prove that healing is possible, that we can carry our grief and still move forward.
We’re raising money for the Iowa Donor Network, an organization that has given us so much support and continues to give life to others through the gift of donation. Every dollar raised helps educate, support, and serve families just like ours.
If you’ve ever known loss... if you believe in second chances... if you’ve been moved by Aaron’s story... I hope you’ll walk with us in spirit. Thank you for helping us honor his life in the most meaningful way we know how.
- G
- M
- C
8 supporters
guidestar.org/profile/42-1414092