Heartbreaking Update: James Gillen to Undergo Organ Donation Surgery Following Devastating Accident

La Crosse, Wisconsin – April 28, 2025 — With heavy hearts, family, friends, and the wider community are mourning the impending loss of James Gillen, a beloved brother, friend, and compassionate soul whose injuries from a recent accident have tragically proven irreversible. James’ family shared the sad update that he will not recover from his injuries, but they also highlighted his enduring spirit of generosity — a spirit that will continue to touch lives even after his passing.

In accordance with James’ previously expressed wishes, he will donate his organs to those in need, providing a powerful final gift to several individuals awaiting life-saving transplants. His heart, lungs, kidneys, liver, and pancreas have all been found viable and are matched with recipients who now have a renewed chance at life thanks to his incredible act of kindness.

The family has lovingly dubbed the process “Operation Jim Bob,” a playful nickname intended to honor James’ sense of humor and their cherished bond by giving him one last teasing moment.

James is currently at Gundersen Health System in La Crosse, Wisconsin. The 12-hour donation operation is scheduled for the early hours of Tuesday morning, April 29. The procedure will begin at 5 a.m., with preparations starting even earlier. Family and friends who wish to say their goodbyes or take part in honoring James’ incredible final act are invited to visit the hospital tonight or participate in the Honor Walk tomorrow morning — a deeply emotional tradition where hospital staff, family, and friends line the halls to pay silent tribute to organ donors as they are taken into surgery.

Those who wish to be part of this moving moment are encouraged to arrive by 4 a.m. to ensure they don’t miss this powerful opportunity to celebrate James’ life and legacy.

“There is no pressure,” James’ family emphasized in their announcement. “Jim is more than happy to have you celebrate him tomorrow just by thinking of the gift he was and the gift he is giving.”

A photograph shared by the family captures James’ infectious joy — the light with which he approached life. Over the past two years, James was known for living with renewed energy and love, always extending a helping hand, offering prayers, and expressing unconditional care to those who crossed his path.

James’ unwavering faith is providing comfort to those who knew him best. “Thankfully, Jim knew who Jesus was and what Jesus did,” his family wrote. “Thankfully that makes this a ‘see you later’ and not a ‘goodbye.’”

In addition to the immediate memorial activities surrounding his organ donation, the family has announced that a Celebration of Jim’s Life will be held at the end of May. The timing accounts for the extensive organ donation process and provides an opportunity for family members to gather from out of state, particularly from Iowa, to come together and honor him properly. Specific details regarding the event will be shared as plans are finalized.

A Legacy of Light and Generosity

James Gillen’s story is one of resilience, kindness, and enduring faith. Even in his final moments, he continues to inspire those around him, not only through his personal journey but through the life-saving gifts he is providing to others. His decision to become an organ donor speaks volumes about his character — a testament to a life lived selflessly and with love.

As his family, friends, and community prepare to say their earthly goodbyes, they do so with the knowledge that James’ spirit will live on — in the memories he left, the lives he touched, and the new beginnings he is giving to those waiting for a second chance.

In the coming days, the family asks for continued prayers, reflections, and celebrations of James’ life and the remarkable legacy he leaves behind.

If you are interested in attending the Celebration of Life service for James Gillen, stay tuned for updates that will be provided by the family in the coming weeks.