April marks Donate Life Month, a time to raise awareness about the power of organ donation.
For Kristina Moon, the tragic loss of her husband in 2022 sparked a new journey saving lives and honoring his legacy through the Billy Moon Foundation.
“I call the organization my therapy because it lets me talk about Billy, our marriage, and keeps his legacy alive,” said Kristina.
Uniformed Firefighters Association (UFA) of New York Local 94 member and FDNY fire fighter Billy Moon died on Dec. 20, 2022, after a fatal fall at the firehouse. His organ donations saved five lives, including two retired members of the FDNY.
In his honor, the Billy Moon Foundation was established to advocate for organ donation, raise awareness, and support donor and recipient families with essentials like food, lodging, and transportation.
“This foundation has created a lasting legacy in Billy’s name,” said Kristina. “Now I have the opportunity to build on that legacy and show our children the importance of doing what’s right which is something Billy always believed in.”
Now I have the opportunity to build on that legacy and show our children the importance of doing what’s right which is something Billy always believed in.
kristina moon, billy’s wife
For Kristina, one of the most meaningful parts of the foundation’s mission has been the personal connections it creates.
“I was recently with a retired FDNY member who had been waiting for a heart transplant. We’d been in touch for months, and he recently called to say he was finally getting his heart. Being one of the first people he reached out to meant the world to me and seeing my daughter’s face light up when she understood what that moment meant was truly unforgettable,” said Kristina, adding that the foundation’s impact is also seen in those everyday struggles for families of organ donors and recipients. “I’ve received calls from families thanking us because they were paying $100 a day to park in New York City, and we were able to ease some of that financial burden. Moments like these reassure me that the foundation is truly on the right path.”
The foundation’s efforts have also helped to raise awareness of the importance of organ donation on a larger scale.
“Because Billy signed up to be an organ donor, five other people are alive today, and through his story and Kristina’s work, countless others are receiving the gift of life,” said General President Edward Kelly. “Organ donation is an impactful way to make a difference and save lives, and the Billy Moon Foundation is helping spread that important word.”
“Having organizations like the IAFF on board with us shows me that more and more people are picking up on the importance and significance of the message. We are all working together to register organ donors and normalize the importance of these conversations,” said Kristina.
Looking ahead, Kristina is working toward expanding the reach of the Billy Moon Foundation as she continues to honor her husband’s memory through life-saving organ donations.
“My goal is for us to grow to the point where we never have to say ‘no’ to a family in need,” she said. “Whether it’s food, lodging, or transportation, these are basic necessities during such a difficult time. We want to ensure we can support every family who needs help.”
To learn more about the foundation or to donate, visit the link here.
