Organ donation recipient honored to ride on Donate Life float in Rose Parade

IRWINDALE, Calif. (KABC) -- An organ donation recipient says he is honored to ride on the Donate Life float during the 129th Rose Parade.

Michael received a kidney and a pancreas from a donor 10 years ago - and he couldn't be more thankful.

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"What a gift I have, and what an honor that has been bestowed to me about riding on this float," he said.

Michael, who has a degree in horticulture, described the Donate Life float as gorgeous.

"The intricacies of the rose petals and the different kinds of barks - it's unbelievable what they're doing here," he said.

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He had this message for those who will see the Donate Life float at the Rose Parade: "Hopefully a lot people see this float and become donors themselves and help save a lot of lives."

Vivienne and Larry lost their son John, who was only 22 years old, 13 years ago. Vivienne said since then, her son has touched 37 lives across the country.

This is the fifth year the two have volunteered at the parade.

WATCH: Donor's parents say son helped 37 lives with organ donations

Vivienne and Larry lost their son John, who was only 22 years old, 13 years ago. Vivienne said since then, her son has touched 37 lives across the country.

You can watch the Rose Parade on New Year's Day on ABC7.

PHOTOS: 2017 Rose Parade float winners

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The Netflix float 'Soar Beyond Imagination' winning entry, the Craftsman Trophy for exceptional achievement in showmanship for floats 55 feet and over, rolls along the Rose Parade.

AP Photo/Michael Owen Baker