KALAMAZOO, MI (WKZO AM/FM) — A Kalamazoo man will be participating in the Rose Parade this year after receiving a heart transplant.
According to Gift of Life Michigan, 82-year-old Kalamazoo citizen David Rozelle will be walking with the Donate Life float during the parade on Wednesday, Jan. 1, to celebrate organ and tissue donations.
Previously, Rozelle had suffered a heart attack in 1984 which greatly impacted his life and mobility. Rozelle said in a statement that he had difficulty with simple tasks, such as walking up stairs.
He later received a heart transplant in 2001, which allowed him to start his life over. He began walking and running for exercise.
Since his transplant, Rozelle has returned to work as a professor with Western Michigan University, as well as participating in several events hosted by Transplant Games of America.
Rozelle says that being able to participate in the parade is on his bucket list.
The Rose Parade takes place in Pasadena, California, on Wednesday, Jan. 1st.
