Honor Your Hero, Nicole Lester
- cpfentner
- Jul 10
- 2 min read
Story as told by Nicole's mom, Laura
Nicole was the kind of person who lit up any room she walked into. She was an extraordinary daughter, a protective and nurturing sister to Kevin and Christina, and the kind of friend you could always count on. In many ways, she was like a second mother to her siblings, guiding them with love and patience, and her loyalty ran deep with all of those she loved.
Nicole was also an unapologetic fan of the Buffalo Bills. She cheered them on - no matter if they headed toward a win or a loss. As an Assistant Manager at Tim Hortons, she loved her job. But Nicole's heart was set on something even bigger, she was preparing to go to college to pursue a degree in social work.
In 2016, tragedy took Nicole from her family far too soon. But even after her passing, her giving nature lived on. Nicole was an organ and tissue donor—something she had registered to be without hesitation. She even let her family know of her decision before she passed away. That selfless decision has since touched the lives of more than 53 people. Each recipient carries a part of her legacy.
Nicole's father now shares her story as a ConnectLife volunteer, bringing both tears and inspiration to those who hear how her life continues to make a difference. Families who receive her gifts often reach out to our family and express their gratitude. Their stories are a reminder that Nicole's compassion lives on.
To honor her spirit and her dream of helping people, our family established a scholarship in her name at Frontier High School, her beloved alma mater. Each year, it is awarded to a graduating student who is both college-bound and a registered organ donor, someone who carries forward Nicole’s values of service, kindness, and courage.
Nicole may no longer be here in person, but her presence is felt in every life she touched and continues to touch. Her story is a powerful reminder of impact just one person can make on so many.
Has Nicole's story inspired you to share your hero's story? Submit your story to featured as ConnectLife's next Honor Your Hero highlighted as Hero of the Month here: https://www.connectlife.org/honor-your-hero
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