A legacy that keeps growing.
This page honors the lives touched through Chris’s gift of life and preserves the stories of connection, hope, and legacy that continue because of him.
Sam’s Story
A connection closer than anyone expected.
Las Cruces family friend Sam Burgess was living with polycystic kidney disease when he received one of Chris’s kidneys. KFOX14 reported that Sam knew Chris and his parents through the community. When he learned Chris’s kidney was a match, he described feeling hope, gratitude and love alongside a sense of unworthiness. He credited Janel with helping move the transplant process forward by contacting Mayo Clinic and getting the people involved who were needed to make it happen.
After the transplant, Sam learned that he and Chris shared a passion for racing and rebuilding cars. He spoke about staying close to Chris’s family and carrying that connection with him into the future.
“Please just Love like him. And live your life.”
— Janel Carnero, as quoted by KFOX14. This story is summarized from KFOX14’s April 21, 2026 reporting.
Read Sam’s full story on KFOX14 →The walk before the gift
One final walk.
A legacy that would keep going.
Before Chris’s gifts could go on to help others, his family, friends, medical team, and community gathered for his Honor Walk.
Sumer Rose Nolen, a close friend of Chris’s family, was a guest in Chris’s room that night. She later shared her memories of his final moments, his family’s strength, and standing alongside them during his Honor Walk.
“It was an honor to be there.”
— Sumer Rose Nolen, sharing her firsthand memory of Chris’s final night and Honor Walk.
Watch Chris’s Honor Walk & read Sumer’s story →A Living Legacy
His gift continues beyond a single moment.
As more stories are shared, this space will honor the people, connections, and lives forever changed through Chris’s gift of life.