Nick Feinstein: Lifesaving and healing gifts of tissue

In 2023, the Feinstein family faced the worst moment of their lives. While words can’t describe these tough moments, “be kind” are the words that are echoed. Nick’s family lives by these words after honoring their son’s decision to say yes to the gift of life.

Nick’s parents describe him as talented, smart, thoughtful, funny and genuinely caring. He symbolized Rocky Mountain Strong with an adventurous spirit. He spent as much time as possible skiing, mountain climbing, fishing and exploring. Nick climbed 25 of Colorado’s 14ers and planned to tackle them all.

The importance of registering to be an organ and tissue donor was a topic the Feinsteins wouldn’t shy away from discussing as a family. Andy Feinstein, Nick’s father, experienced the impact of these lifesaving and healing gifts as a tissue recipient.

“Donation is something we instilled in our children,” said Andy Feinstein. “Nick was adamant about being an organ and tissue donor.”

While on a ski trip, Nick died in an avalanche. He was only 22 years old. Following Nick’s passing, his family learned he was able to donate bone, soft tissue, and skin grafts. To date, there are 56 recipients of his lifesaving and healing gifts.

“I know if Nick were alive today he would be happy he was able to make 56 people’s lives better, in whatever capacity,” said Andy. “It makes us very happy to know he’s helped so many others.”