Bud Dion McMellon

Bud was born with a heart defect that went undetected until he had his first emergency open heart surgery at 10 months old. His heart never should have beaten once but miraculously he lived and survived although the doctors’ thought was only a small chance, he would make it through the surgery and recover. Bud continued to live, thrive and have an exciting life, he enjoyed riding his crotch rocket, boating, fishing, mudding, ATV’s, dirt bikes and spending time with his friends. He was loved by everyone for his amazing outlook on life, his positivity and contagious smile and humor. In his mid 20s bud was given a pacemaker when his health began to decline. It wasn’t until March 2021 at 33, Bud began the journey of finding a donor and process of a heart lung transplant. Eventually denied, Bud did not qualify, he had become gravely ill. Bud documented his journey and helped others find hope, courage, and strength. Ans amazingly was able to donate both of his eyes to help two different people to see.