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Disney Spirit Award given to Georgia Fans for their inspiring story

UGA Fans Richard Bremer and Megan Twist’s Family Receive the 2024 Disney Spirit Award Walt Disney World Resort ambassadors, cast members from the University of Georgia, Mickey Mouse and ESPN Wide World of Sports Vice President Adam Ball share a happy moment with Georgia Bulldogs fans Richard Bremer and Megan Twist’s sisters Katy Williams, Jane Hixson and Carolyn Hostetler. Bremer and Twist were awarded the 2024 Disney Spirit Award at Walt Disney World Resort in Florida on Dec. 2, 2024 after Twist’s donated lungs saved Bremer’s life and inspired him to switch his football allegiance from the Florida Gators to Twist’s favorite team, the Bulldogs. The Disney Spirit Award is presented annually to the most inspiring figures in college football. (Olga Thompson, photographer) (Olga Thompson/Olga Thompson, Photographer)

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. — Megan Twist and Richard Bremer will recognized by Walt Disney World Resort for their heart-warming bond that is driving increased organ donations throughout the country.

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Action News Jax previously told you the story of the inspirational connection between Twist and Bremer, now they can be celebrated for their story, in life and posthumously.

“Everyone at Walt Disney World was deeply moved by Richard and Megan’s incredible story,” said ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex vice president Adam Ball. “They are an inspiring example of the strength and compassion it takes to help others and it’s our honor to recognize both of them with this year’s Disney Spirit Award.”

Since the award began in 1996, Walt Disney World has presented it to inspiring figures in the world of college football. Bremer and Twist are the first recipients with ties to the University of Georgia and the Bulldogs.

“Megan was the biggest Georgia Bulldogs fan there was, so it’s great to know that her name is always going to be associated with this award,” said Twist’s sister, Carolyn Hostetler. “She’s my hero and I know she’s Richard’s hero as well.”

Since Bremer’s life-saving surgery, he and Twist’s family have been strong advocates for raising awareness for organ donation. Both Bremer and Hostetler work with the LifeLink Foundation, where Bremer, a Jacksonville native, serves as a spokesperson and Hostetler serves as a hospital development specialist with LifeLink of Florida.

“I celebrate (Twist’s organ donation) every day when I wake up,” said Bremer. “Getting to breathe every day, having her as a part of my life. She’s with me every day. Getting to bring her to Walt Disney World with me and receive the Spirit Award, I’m carrying her spirit with me.”

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Tate Rosenberg

Tate Rosenberg, Action News Jax

Tate Rosenberg is a Content Creator/Coordinator for Action News Jax.

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