Boy's gift of life through basketball

BELLBROOK, Ohio (WDTN) - A little boy taken too soon continues to give back.

His parents chose to donate his organs so that others would be able to live.

Parker Bernard had a passion for basketball.  The 11-year-old passed away in February 2012 due to complications from surgery to remove a brain tumor.

His parents couldn't think of a better way to honor his memory than to hold a basketball tournament called Athletes for Angels.

This is the second year for the event.  Proceeds go to the S. Parker Bernard Scholarship Fund to help high schoolers who want to play basketball in college.

"It's just heart-warming to know that they still care about Parker and his legacy lives on," said Sheila Schurman Bernard.

This isn't the only way he's being remembered.  Parker's parents also decided to donate his organs.

"It's a bittersweet experience.  You know, we lost Parker and it was the worst moment of our lives, but knowing that someone else benefitted from that, is the best feeling."

Parker helped give several people new life including Chester Golson.  He received Parker's kidney and was at the tournament for the tip-off Friday night.

"When they gave me that kidney and I just started crying because it was such a young boy," said Chester Golson.

"For them to be able to make such a courageous and compassionate decision at such a tragic time in their lives, I can't even put into words how special they are to me and we just love them," said Sharri Golson.

Parker's parents hope that their story will inspire others to give this precious gift .

"You don't plan for it.  You think you'll never be in this situation and so, it kind of sneaks up on you.  So, I think it's something you may want to consider and want to talk about ahead of time.  So, God forbid something would happen, you would have a handle on what your decision would be," said Scott Bernard.

The tournament continues through the weekend at Bellbrook Middle School.