GREEN BAY, Wis (WFRV) – What started as a second chance at life turned into an emotional first meeting years in the making for a familiar face at Local 5.
Shaun Kornusky, an account executive with the station, received a life-saving heart transplant nearly two years ago after battling a lifelong heart condition. Since then, he has become a strong advocate for organ donation across Northeast Wisconsin.
This weekend, that journey came full circle.
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While serving as Grand Marshal of the Donate Life Walk at Bay View Middle School, Kornusky met the family of his donor – Michael Daniels – for the very first time.
“It was something that was unexpected. I am so grateful,” Kornusky said. “When I saw them… I was trying to hold it in… I just said he’s here.”
Daniels, a 54-year-old from Ohio, died after suffering a sudden stroke. His family says he had only recently made the decision to register as an organ donor — a choice that ultimately saved multiple lives.
“He had actually just registered to be an organ donor two weeks before he passed away,” said his fiancée, Heather Clonch. “Yes means you really knew what he wanted.”
For Daniels’ family, meeting Kornusky brought a sense of comfort in the midst of their loss.
“He had such a huge heart and was a giving, caring person,” Clonch said. “And just the little bit we’ve talked to Shaun… it absolutely went to the right person.”
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His daughter, Makayla Daniels, also reflected on the moment, saying it helped to see the impact her father’s decision made.
Mike Daniels
“It definitely helps a lot knowing how grateful he is,” she said. “We think it definitely went to where it was supposed to go.”
Kornusky says his donor didn’t just save his life, but others as well, and he hopes sharing his story will inspire more people to register.
“My donor saved not just my life, but three other lives,” he said. “You can do the same just by registering to be an organ donor.”
Organ donation advocates say stories like this highlight both the need and the impact of donors. According to organizers, only a small percentage of registered donors are ultimately able to donate, making each decision even more meaningful.
Now, Kornusky says this moment is just the beginning of his mission, using his voice and platform to raise awareness and encourage others to give the gift of life.
