Heart of Gold: Veteran Becomes Double Organ Donor and Model

Lindsay Gutierrez, an Air Force veteran from Oklahoma, has made a remarkable journey from military service to modeling, all while giving back through organ donation. Named Miss March in the 2026 Pin-Ups For Vets calendar, she is one of only 280 people in the U.S. to be a double organ donor.

After serving six years in the Air Force, with deployments to Qatar and Djibouti and earning the Air Force Achievement Medal, she was crowned Miss Veteran America in 2017. Following her honorable discharge, Lindsay continued her service by volunteering with a nonprofit advocating for veteran organ donors.

In 2022, she donated a kidney to a fellow veteran at Mount Sinai Hospital, choosing to do so on Memorial Day weekend to honor her service. Within a week, she met her recipient, Army vet Reggie Robinson, and his wife. “It was so inspiring and empowering to connect with other women veterans,” she shared.

Later, she donated 40% of her liver to an anonymous recipient, who surprised her recently with a heartfelt thank-you letter after 15 months. Lindsay expressed her hope to meet her liver recipient someday, emphasizing the profound impact of her donations. She feels healthy and fully recovered, having even hiked Mount Kilimanjaro less than a year after her kidney surgery.

Lindsay Gutierrez with her kidney's recipient Reggie Robinson — In 2024, she donated 40% of her liver, leaving a 10-inch scar. She’s pictured with her kidney recipient, Reggie Robinson. *Courtesy of Lindsay Gutierrez*

Her dedication to organ donation and veteran advocacy inspired her to pose for the pin-up calendar, which highlights stories of service and sacrifice. The photoshoot at Galleano Winery in California allowed her to meet fellow veterans and share her story.

Lindsay Gutierrez and her husband Anthony in Air Force uniforms — Lindsay met her husband, Anthony, while both were stationed in England. Her partner, still on active duty, supported her decision to pose for the calendar. *Courtesy of Lindsay Gutierrez*

Referring to her organ donations, Lindsay said, “It felt like I had a platform and story to share about why organ donation is so important.” Her story continues to inspire many, showcasing her resilience, compassion, and commitment to service.