KVUE Video
Inspirational Austin teen Ben Breedlove to be honored one year after death
KVUE -- A Westlake High School senior who died last December left behind an incredible legacy. He made a YouTube video about his heart condition that now has 7.5 million views. One year later, his family is speaking out about his life.
Ben Breedlove, 17, posted videos in the weeks before his death on Christmas Day 2011.
"I have a heart condition known has hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. I have a pacemaker," he explained.
He suffered from a rare heart condition and used notecards to tell his story. His mission — to raise awareness and share his trust in God.
Although he is gone, his legacy continues. Millions have since viewed his videos on YouTube.
"I'm just proud of Ben. I'm really proud of how he lived his life," Ben's mom Deanne Breedlove said.
Now his family is honoring his memory one year after his passing. His compassion lives on through the gift of his organs.
"He wasn't just an organ donor, but he gave in every other way during his life too," Deanne said.
That giving is being rewarded. Ben's portrait made of natural materials will be featured on a float during the Rose Bowl Parade. It's sponsored by the group Donate Life and the Cook-Walden Funeral home.
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