The inspiring story of the “2 Hearts” movie, involving Jorge Bacardi and his organ donor, Christopher Gregory, has moved the hearts of movie enthusiasts. Likewise, fans are curious about the survivor, Jorge Bacardi children, wife, and family.
Jorge Bacardi, affectionately known as “TJ,” was born in Santiago de Cuba on April 6th, 1944. He was raised surrounded by the rich history of the Bacardi rum family as the youngest of Caridad and Joaquin Bacardi’s four children.
TJ’s academic interests led him to Stanford University, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in Economics. After that, he studied industrial engineering at the University of Miami.
After gaining his formal education, Jorge worked for Bacardi Rum for over 20 years, most of which was spent at the Bahamas distillery.
Despite not being in the public eye for his business endeavors, Jorge gained attention when Eric Gregory published “All My Tomorrows: A Story of Tragedy, Transplant, and Hope.”
The book sheds light on the remarkable journey of Eric Gregory’s son, Christopher Gregory, the organ donor who donated his organs to seven individuals, including Jorge Bacardi.
After undergoing a life-saving double lung transplant at Mayo Clinic, he established and funded the “Gabriel House of Care” organization under the clinic’s umbrella, creating a lasting legacy in memory of his donor.
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Jorge Bacardi Children: How Many Kids He Have With His Wife Leslie Bacardi?
Jorge Bacardi and his wife Leslie Bacardi’s life and love story are widely celebrated, but limited information is available on their children.
There are in-depth descriptions of Jorge Bacardi’s life and career in a Facebook post published on September 29, 2020, by Gabriel House of Care, a charity supported by Jorge Bacardi and his wife.
However, the post makes no mention of their children. Although the information regarding their children remains undisclosed, the post sheds light on Jorge Bacardi’s role as a wonderful uncle and mentor.
Further, it mentioned that he is survived by his wife Leslie, sister Carmen, 17 nieces and nephews, 43 grandnieces and nephews, and one great-grandniece, predeceased by his brothers Joaquin and Alberto.
While Jorge is survived by his large extended family, the absence of any mention of their children suggests that the couple did not have biological children.
Despite not having their own children, Jorge Bacardi exemplified fatherhood through his support and guidance to his nieces and nephews.
While the specific details about Leslie Bacardi and Jorge Bacardi’s children may remain undisclosed, their love and dedication to the family in the lives of their extended family are evident.
The businessman’s legacy will continue through the memories and experiences shared with their nieces, nephews, and the broader family network.
What Actually Happened To Jorge Bacardi And Christopher Gregory?
Jorge Bacardi’s story started in childhood when he was misdiagnosed with cystic fibrosis, with little hope of surviving. However, it wasn’t until Jorge reached his 40s that a correct diagnosis was made.
Doctors discovered that he had a congenital disease known as primary ciliary dyskinesia. A double lung transplant became Jorge’s only hope for survival.
After careful consideration and with the support of his wife, Leslie, Jorge made the courageous decision to pursue a transplant.
In March 2008, at 64, Jorge underwent a successful double lung transplant at the Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville. It was a life-changing experience that allowed him to breathe freely for the first time.
Despite not knowing the identity of their organ donor, Jorge and Leslie Bacardi were deeply grateful for the gift of life they had received, and they sought to honor him.
They named their donor Gabriel after the archangel Gabriel and later discovered that the donor’s true identity was Christopher Mark Gregory, a nineteen-year-old student.
Christopher had suffered a fatal brain aneurysm and had no chance of surviving. In the meantime, he decided to donate his organs to save the lives of others.
In 2009, the Bacardis met with Christopher’s family and decided to donate funds to the Mayo Clinic to construct a new hospitality house.
This house, named Gabriel House of Care, served as a way to express their gratitude and pay tribute to Christopher. He also helped produce the movie “2 Hearts,” depicting their story.
Jorge Bacardi lived until the age of 76, thanks to the generosity of his donor Christopher. His passing in September 2020 marked the end of a remarkable life filled with resilience and gratitude.
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