Honoring the life of Addison B. Joseph Ries

In Loving Memory of Addison B. Joseph Ries — Our AJ

My beautiful boy, AJ.

There are no words to fully capture a life, a love, or the space left behind when someone we love is no longer physically here. AJ was so much more than a son. He was a brother, a grandson, an uncle, a friend, and a true force of nature. He brought kindness, laughter, a little bit of chaos, and a whole lot of love into the lives of the people fortunate enough to know him.

As his mom, I had the privilege of loving him from the very beginning, through all the moments in between, and until the end. I will forever carry the memories, the laughter, and the love that made him who he was.

Losing my son has left a space in my heart that nothing can fill. But through AJ’s gift as an organ donor, his story carries a beautiful and profound possibility: that others may have more time, more birthdays, more embraces, and more precious moments with the people they love.

As his mother, I wish more than anything that I could have more time with my boy. Knowing that his gift may give another mother more time with her child, another family more time together, or another person the chance to continue living is a comfort that words can hardly express.

AJ’s life was never defined by one moment or by the circumstances of his passing. His life was defined by who he was, how he loved, the laughter he brought, and the way he made people feel. His generous spirit will always be part of his legacy.

To Lifeline of Ohio, thank you for honoring my son and recognizing the extraordinary gift he has left behind. As a mother, I will forever miss the life we should have had together. But I am deeply grateful that a part of AJ’s story can continue through the lives touched by his donation.

My beautiful boy, you are a veil away, but never far from my heart. Your life mattered. Your love mattered. And your legacy lives on.

Everybody Love Everybody.

Forever your mom. ❤️