Spencer Forsling was an amazing young man, full of life and energy with a huge heart and an infectious personality. Spencer was unfortunately the victim of a car-pedestrian accident on December 3, 2025 and passed away. He was only 22 years old.

Spencer was a graduate student in the College of Engineering at Virginia Tech. He earned dual bachelor’s degrees in May of 2025 in electrical engineering and computer engineering with a major in space systems. He was pursuing his master’s degree in electrical engineering focused on electromagnetics.

Spencer was beloved by faculty and staff. He was an active member of clubs and organizations on campus. He was a graduate assistant for the Student Success Center where he mentored other students. He made an impact on so many he encountered and had a passion for service.

Spencer loved singing, as he was a member and president of an A Capella club. He enjoyed reading, photography, playing video games, making music, adventuring and hiking, and spending time with friends and family.

Spencer Joined Gift of Life’s registry in March of 2025 at an event hosted on campus. On July 21, 2025, Spencer was identified as a match for 38-year-old man battling Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL). He gladly said yes to move forward with the process when he realized he had the chance to save someone’s life. Spencer’s tragic passing came before he had the chance to donate to save this man’s life. We urge you to step up the way Spencer did and join the registry!

This is how you can help!

• Join the registry! Click on the blue "Join Registry" button. 
  • Donors in general good health between 18 and 35 years old may join the registry. Donors over the age of 35 can also join, but we ask that you to please donate $60 to offset the lab fees – Click here to learn why.  
  • Ninety percent of donors requested by transplant centers are 18 to 35 years old for medical reasons – Click here to learn why Age Matters.
  • Donors can remain in the registry until their 61st birthday – Click here to learn why the registry has an Age Limit.
  • Certain medical conditions may mean you are not able to join the registry or donate – Click here to check the Conditions List. If you're not sure, a health history questionnaire is part of the registration process.
• Sponsor a swab kit. Click on the orange "Give to My Circle" button. Lab processing of every kit costs $60. Your contribution will help add new donors to the registry, who may be a match for a patient in need. 
• Spread the word. Use the social media links to the right to share Spencer's Legacy in your Facebook and Twitter account. The more people who order a swab kit and join the registry, the more opportunities for a second chance at life patients have. 

For more information on Spencer, visit here.