Baseball legend Rod Carew was saved by a heart donation from a former NFL player. Carew, who suffered a heart attack on a golf course in 2015, was given a mechanical heart device, but a year later it was clear that the 69-year-old was in need of a new human heart. One month later, the tragic circumstances surrounding a young NFL player’s death would provide Carew’s salvation.
Konrad Reuland, who played for the Jets and the Ravens, was unsigned and working to ensure that he would carry on his career with a new team the following year. The 29-year-old was on a treadmill when he suffered an incapacitating headache. After seeing specialists, he underwent brain surgery several weeks later, but never regained consciousness from the procedure.
Reuland was an organ donor, so prior to his death, doctors harvested many of his organs, including his heart, which was a match for Rod Carew.
Given the specific circumstances surrounding both the donor and the recipient, both parties were soon able to piece together the other half of the puzzle, despite not having been informed of each’s identities. Eventually, the evidence was suggestive enough that Reuland’s mother contacted Carew’s family and confirmed their suspicions.
On March 2 of this year, Reuland’s mother met with Rod Carew, and in a touching moment, listened to her son’s heart beat inside the chest of the man he saved.
“I will take care of it, this heart, because I've been given a second chance," said Carew.
Speaking to the Los Angeles Times, Reuland offered a profound look at her new relationship with the baseball Hall of Famer, stating, "I told them when they came here, and I strongly believe this, that they are now a part of our family. My son's heart is beating in your chest."
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Grieving couple comforting each other
This response to someone grieving a friend might be the best internet comment ever
When someone is hit with the sudden loss of a friend or loved one, words rarely feel like enough. Yet, more than a decade ago, a wise Redditor named GSnow shared thoughts so profound they still bring comfort to grieving hearts today.
Originally posted around 2011, the now-famous reply was rediscovered when Upvoted, an official Reddit publication, featured it again to remind everyone of its enduring truth. It began as a simple plea for help: “My friend just died. I don't know what to do.”
What followed was a piece of writing that many consider one of the internet’s best comments of all time. It remains shared across social media, grief forums, and personal messages to this day because its honesty and metaphor speak to the raw reality of loss and the slow, irregular path toward healing.
Below is GSnow’s full reply, unchanged, in all its gentle, wave-crashing beauty:
Why this advice still matters
Mental health professionals and grief counselors often describe bereavement in stages or phases, but GSnow’s “wave theory” gives an image more relatable for many. Rather than a linear process, grief surges and retreats—sometimes triggered by a song, a place, or a simple morning cup of coffee.
In recent years, this metaphor has found renewed relevance. Communities on Reddit, TikTok, and grief support groups frequently reshare it to help explain the unpredictable nature of mourning.
Many readers say this analogy helps them feel less alone, giving them permission to ride each wave of grief rather than fight it.
Finding comfort in shared wisdom
Since this comment first surfaced, countless people have posted their own stories underneath it, thanking GSnow and passing the words to others facing fresh heartbreak. It’s proof that sometimes, the internet can feel like a global support group—strangers linked by shared loss and hope.
For those searching for more support today, organizations like The Dougy Center, GriefShare, and local bereavement groups offer compassionate resources. If you or someone you know is struggling with intense grief, please reach out to mental health professionals who can help navigate these deep waters.
When grief comes crashing like the ocean, remember these words—and hang on. There is life between the waves.
This article originally appeared four years ago.