When tragedy strikes, one decision can change everything.
In Gifted, a grieving mother faces the unthinkable and makes a decision that can save multiple strangers.
More than a story of loss, Gifted is about legacy. It is about how one act of generosity can impact communities and generations.
JT Stone is a national standout, the number one recruited high-school basketball Phenom from the inner city of St. Louis, Missouri. His plans for college ball, followed by the NBA, are in direct conflict with his Mother, Loretta Stone’s schemes. She’s a widowed, single mother of two boys with short-term aspirations of her small family rising out of her perceived poverty on the wings of JT’s great athletic ability. Their conflict will be ultimately resolved by a power that neither of them can anticipate or comprehend – fate.
Kevin Mills, a man pressed to choose between his marriage or the healthcare career he loves, is no more than a familiar acquaintance to Loretta. But, he becomes a trusted friend when their lives meaningfully intersect. He must be the bridge between the gap of Loretta’s dreams of NBA greatness and the reality with which she is forced to accept.
GIFTED begs you to answer the question: If given the opportunity to save the lives of eight total strangers, would you…could you?
The novel shows that real love often means allowing others to live, even when it costs us everything.
Gifted reminds us that a hero doesn’t need fame or glory. True courage is often silent but powerful.
JT’s decision to become an organ donor turns tragedy into hope. His legacy isn’t his basketball skills or dreams of stardom.
Even in the deepest grief, light can break through. Hope is not the absence of pain, but what grows in the middle of it.
Robert Horsey has been a dedicated critical care registered nurse since 1999, with much of his career focused on Organ Donation and Transplantation. He has served as Interventional Organ Procurement Coordinator at Mid-America Transplant Services in St. Louis, Missouri, Clinical Transplant Coordinator for the Heart Transplant Program at Ascension St. Vincent Indianapolis Hospital, and Clinical Transplant Coordinator for the Liver Transplant Program at Indiana University Health, University Hospital.
Robert holds two national certifications: Certified Procurement Transplant Coordinator (CPTC) and Certified Clinical Transplant Coordinator (CCTC). Both of these certifications were awarded by The American Board for Transplant Certification. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Missouri, St. Louis, Barnes Hospital College of Nursing.
He is currently part of the Indiana Donor Network, the Organ Procurement Organization serving the state of Indiana, continuing his mission to honor and protect the gift of life.
Robert Horsey was born and raised in St. Louis, Missouri and currently resides in Carmel, Indiana with his wife Courtney and her two sons, Michael and Ozzy, and their beloved Bulldog, Rex.
Gifted is Robert’s debut novel. It is a fictional story about real human experiences, inspired by the countless moments he’s witnessed in his career.
Gifted reminds us that heroism isn’t always loud. Sometimes it’s a whispered “yes” in a hospital room, a decision made in the middle of heartbreak, or the belief that even in loss, we can give life.
Here’s how Gifted by Robert Horsey has inspired readers all over the world:
Inside view on transplants, from the viewpoint of healthcare workers, donor families and recipients. As a transplant survivor, this book was easy to read, heartfelt and insightful.
Love the book! I am a recipient of an organ transplant! Liver, Pancreas, Intestines and Stomach.
God bless our donors!
This was a very compelling story! It gave insight into the organ procurement process. I loved reading this book! As a recipient it was difficult but also rewarding to get the donor family perspective. Thanks to the author for taking the time to write this!!
This is a wonderful book. Since I am the recipient of a liver and kidney transplant, it has touched my heart. I understand so much more of what the organ donors families must go through. The blessing is the gift of life to someone. Robert Horsey has written a story you will hold in your hearts forever. A big thanks to him to bringing this to light. Please, if you haven’t already, consider organ donation.
Whether you have thoughts about the book or want to share your own story, we’d love to hear from you. Your words matter to us.