Assault Victim's Sister Speaks Out After Brother's Death

The sister of a man who died as a result of injuries suffered in Winkler this weekend is speaking out in the aftermath of the senseless act of violence.

Zack Straughan was severely beaten at Valley Bowling Lanes Saturday night before passing away on Monday at Health Sciences Centre in Winnipeg.

However, his sister Cassie Straughan says thanks to the CPR efforts of the first responder from Winkler Police, Zack may impact many lives as an organ donor. His heart, liver, both kidneys and pancreas will be eligible for donation.

"I don't know who the police officer was at the scene, I would really like to meet him and shake his hand. Because of his quick thinking and CPR he did on my brother, (Zack's) heart is suitable to go to a person."

Even though saddened at the sudden passing of her brother, Straughan was looking forward to having Zack walk her down the aisle, she says knowing the recipient of Zack's heart will be given a second chance fills her with joy.

She notes becoming an organ donor is a personal choice, but urges other to consider the option.

Straughan leaves behind four children, one yet to be born, and Cassie notes two online fundraising campaigns have been created for their future.

"He was 25 years old and we didn't see this coming, he didn't have life insurance, so anything we can donate to help his four kids is greatly appreciated." she says.

In just a day more than $8,000 has been raised.

"I cannot believe the generosity of the people of Canada," she says, adding many have come from Winkler residents.

One donor notes he was at the scene when Zack was attacked, "and all he thought about was my brother's family," she says.

"I know that money won't bring their dad back, but hopefully it will provide them with a little bit of security in the future," Cassie says, adding after funeral costs the money will be used to start trust funds for post-secondary education for the four children.

You can find the gofundme page created by Cassie here:  

And another in support of the mother of Zack's fourth child here:

As a final touching keepsake, working with the doctors and nurses, the family was able to make a recording of Zack's heartbeat before his passing. The recording will be saved and be playable on a special teddy bear for each of his children.

Many save the ultrasound heartbeat recorded during pregnancy on a "Heartbeat Bear" which replays the heartbeat recording.