Carrie Stephen, 31, passed away peacefully on Friday, November 20, 2015, at the University of Wisconsin Hospital. Born in Racine on July 3, 1984, she was the daughter of Charles and Vicky Stephen. Following graduation from Horlick High School, Carrie attended the University of Wisconsin-Madison where she obtained her Bachelor of Science degree in Biology. She went on to earn her Master of Science Degree in Physician Assistant Practice from Rosalind Franklin University in North Chicago, IL. Carrie was employed by the Children’s Hospital of Illinois at OSF St. Francis Hospital in Peoria, IL, as a Pediatric Surgery physician assistant and Pediatric Surgery Program Manager for seven years. She was passionate about her work and a beloved physician assistant within OSF. As a double-lung transplant recipient, she was honored for opening many doors for Gift of Hope at her facility to channel the donation message to hospital administration and staff; she also organized grand rounds, speaker panels and donor drives that educated many hospital staff and visitors about the importance of organ and tissue donation. In addition to her love for her job she also enjoyed Starbucks, walks and bike rides with her two dogs Diesel and Oliver, and crafting gifts for her friends and family. Survivors include her mother and father, Charles and Vicky Stephen; her brother Ryan (Tonja) Stephen; and her grandmother, Joyce Stindle. She is further survived by extended family and her countless friends. Carrie’s family would like to thank Dr. Sonetti and his team at the UW Hospital, as well as, her transplant team and supporters throughout her journey. Visitation will be held on Wednesday, November 25th, at Proko Funeral Home from 5:00 p.m. until the time of the memorial service at 7:00 p.m. Interment will be private. In lieu of flowers please make donations to the Gift of Hope Organization Organ and Tissue Donor Network either online at www.giftofhope.org or by mail to Gift of Hope Organ & Tissue Donor Network. Attn: Gwendolyn Blakemore, 425 Spring Lake Drive, Itasca, IL 60143.Proko Funeral Home & Crematory5111-60th StreetKenosha, WI 53144Phone: (262) 654-3533Visit Carrie’s Online Memorial Book at:www.prokofuneralhome.com
Condolences
Brianna Doby
November 24, 2015
Every time I saw Carrie's name in my inbox, I got excited. Her strength, kindness, and advocacy was absolutely inspiring to me and everyone she met. My favorite memory of Carrie is chatting with her about her beloved puppies and trying to convince her to start a business selling "Donate Life" colored bow-ties for doggies! We laughed so hard. I placed Carrie's picture (and one of her "gentlemen" doggies) in my Donate Life Advocate training this weekend, and I dedicated our training to her. I'll keep doing that for a long time--because she was the most amazing, powerful Advocate for the gift of life I've ever met. I will carry her in my heart, and draw from her inspiration, every single day. I miss her.
Nancy Underwood
November 24, 2015
Chuck,My heart goes out to you. My husband's death was very hard and I can't even imagine losing a young, vibrant daughter. I'm so proud of her bravery in supporting organ transplants. Give yourself time to heal.
Tara
November 23, 2015
To Carrie’s family, My son was born prematurely in April; he was then transported to the OSF NICU unit. My son was two days old when a team of doctors walked in and started talking around me about my son having surgery. I was devastated and mess as a first time mom. She made such an impression on me that I recognized her immediately. She was the only person calming my fears and actually speaking to my husband and I, and not around us. She made me feel confident and less irrational about my son’s upcoming procedure. I know Carrie would have no idea who we are, but we are so thankful to her for treating us and our precious son so well. She was beautiful inside and out and one of the very few professionals who treated us like family and not clients. We are so very sorry for your loss. We will keep you all in our thoughts and prayers.Tara, Michael & Chandler Crady
Courtney White-Mickle
November 22, 2015
Hi, my name is Courtney. I met Carrie in 2013 about 5 months after her surgery. I was a kid in the hospital after having a serious and life saving surgery. I was sick and depressed and Carrie was introduced to me to help cheer me up. I grew a strong bond with Carrie and she helped me through so many struggles me and her shared. She inspired me with her story of her transplants. Carrie has impacted my life so much and I am truly thankful to have met her. I send my best wishes to her family and close friends. She was truly a blessing.
Julie & Ann. Beckett
November 22, 2015
Vicki and Chuck,So sorry to hear of Carries passing. Please know that we are thinking of you and your family during this difficult time. Mom has so many good memories of when she babysat for Carrie and Ryan. God be with you all!
Sue Santarelli
November 22, 2015
Rest well & in peace sweet angel. Your courage and strength serve as an inspiration to the many lives you have touched. My deepest condolences to Carrie's family, many friends and those whose hearts are saddened to hear of her passing. Prayers for comfort and peace in the days ahead.
Vivian Lefferts
November 22, 2015
I was blessed to meet Carrie at a speakers training for Gift of Hope, so I heard her tell her story at length then. What an amazing woman and wonderful spirit. I am so blessed to have been able to meet her, and just wish our paths had crossed more often. My thoughts, prayers and condolences go out to Carrie's family, friend and co-workers.