One of the most heartbreaking stories you’ll ever hear about has found at least a sliver of a silver lining.
A little over a week ago, it was reported that the three-year-old daughter of BYU running backs coach Reno Mahe was “fighting for her life” following an accident in their home. One of Mahe’s seven children, Elsie, was found last Tuesday morning hanging from a set of blinds with the cord wrapped around her neck. Tuesday night, the little girl’s mother, Sunny Mahe, confirmed that "[o]ur Elsie girl has officially been released to heaven – at least from a worldly, paperwork standpoint.”
The mom stated that the family would “be working closely with the donation team for the next couple of days” to find a match for their daughter’s organs. On Facebook Wednesday night, Sunny Mahe revealed that matches have been found and her daughter’s organs will be harvested to give the gift of life/health to others.We were just told that matches have been found for Elsie’s organs and she will head down to surgery early tomorrow morning. We are opening another fast for the doctors that will perform the surgeries as well as the recipients. We will plead for the surgeries to be flawless and Elsie’s gifts to be well received. You are all welcome to join us in this fast.
“I have felt especially close to my Heavenly Father today as I have prepared my child to give her sweet body that another may live. I have considered the great gift of the atonement. I wonder if Heavenly Father felt anything like me - filled with immeasurable sorrow, yet excited as I anticipate this wonderful life saving gift that my child will give; my own beloved child in whom I am well pleased. I hope that is not sacrilegious to compare.
“As we enter this Christmas season, I believe many of you will be tempted to feel sorry for me for having to endure this experience right around the holidays. However, I will treasure the opportunity to remember my sweet Elsie every year at this time and reflect upon the true meaning of this Christmas.
“Funeral plans are still in the works and will be posted as they are confirmed. I love you, my friends. Your prayers, acts of service and kind words have carried me through these difficult days and given me much sought after peace. I pray that you will all feel the peace that our Savior brings as well.