Honoring Our Hero

Christian Clay

A man in a suit and tie holding his neck.

Organ Donor, Tissue Donor, Eye Donor

Age: 22
Location: Amarillo
Date of Donation: 05/11/2023
Hospital: Northwest Texas Hospital

Christian Clay

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Christian was born on September 18, 2000, in Amarillo. From the moment he could walk, Christian was a very active child!   He loved all sports and being outdoors. Not only did he like sports, he was good at them and very athletic.  He was also a very caring child; he was tender and understood the importance of being kind and lending a helping hand.  He loved to be close to those he loved, and throughout his entire life, he loved to snuggle up close and give great hugs.

On January 9, 2012, Christian’s life would be forever changed when he was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes.  He had to go from being a carefree, anything-goes-tough kid to a very strict and disciplined young man in order to manage his diabetes.  Christian faced his diagnosis and felt compelled to lead others by example.   He volunteered for the Diabetic Foundation of the High Plains, and he was a counselor for Camp New Day. He was also involved with Camp Sweeney in Dallas.  Christian was a mentor to many, showing others that they could lead a very fulfilling life with diabetes. Despite the difficulties associated with Type 1 diabetes, Christian never lost his sweet spirit.

Christian volunteered to help older members of the church by assisting them in the parking lot, making it easier for them to gain access to the church.  He was also involved in the Panhandle Community Prayer Breakfast. He had a servant’s heart throughout his life and strived to treat everyone around him lovingly.

Throughout high school, he continued to play football for Caprock. In 2019, his senior year, the team was district champions and made it to the state playoffs.  He went on to attend Amarillo College and had plans to attend Tech in the future.

Christian never lost his love for the outdoors and continued hiking, snowboarding and cherishing time spent in the mountains. He always took his faithful hiking Shephard “Ribeye” with him. He stayed on his mom to have outdoor events planned.

Even in death, Christian’s life and legacy will continue as he gave the gift of life to others through organ donation.

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