As we come to the end of April, I would like to bring attention to Donate Life awareness month. During April, organ donors and recipients have celebrated and brought awareness to organ donations and the Donate Life company in particular. Donate Life is a nonprofit organization that assists in organ, eye, and tissue donations. Those who work for the organization assist in uniting patients, recipients, donors, and families. It is extremely important to become an organ donor and support organ donations however possible. April, Donate Life awareness month, is a great time to spread awareness about organ donations, register as an organ donor, and honor those who have saved lives through donating. 

The Donate Life organization is particularly close to my family. In this article, I would like to acknowledge my grandfather. A few years back, he was in need of a liver transplant. The company Donate Life was a significant part of his transplant, and it could not have happened without their help. My grandfather would likely not be with us today had he not gotten this transplant. For that we have Donate Life and organ donors to thank. Although it was an extremely challenging time for my entire family, we are grateful that the surgery was successful. After recovery, he is still just as adventurous, bold, and loving as he always has been. Taking advantage of Donate Life awareness month is extremely important in educating others, spreading awareness for the work that this organization does, and showing that organ donation saves lives. 

Currently, there are over 100,000 people waiting for lifesaving organ transplants. One donor can save up to eight lives and heal over 75 people. So far, the Donate Life community has registered around 165 million organ, eye, and tissue donors in the United States, but although 95% of Americans are in favor of becoming an organ donor, only 58% are registered. Becoming an organ donor gives life and health to others. Last year over 39,000 transplants gave new life to patients and their families. On average, there are around 58,000 tissue donors and over 2.5 million transplants each year. Becoming an organ donor is free and gives hope to waiting patients. There are so many people in need, and a small act can change someone’s entire life.

During the COVID-19 pandemic it is especially important to become an organ donor. The following provides information regarding organ donation during the pandemic. Organ procurement organizations test all potential donors for COVID-19. If you test positive for COVID-19, you would most likely not be able to donate. This is at least until your care team determines that organ donation is safe for both you and your recipient. However, if someone recovers from COVID-19 and then passes away from an unrelated cause, donation is possible. 

Organ donations are lifesaving. My family can confidently say, the Donate Life brand helps significant amounts of people. We are grateful for the company and the support that they provided during a challenging time for my family. There are countless ways to support Donate Life and organ donations. Registering as an organ donor, supporting through donations, or purchasing from the Donate Life merchandise shop are all great ways to help. Donate Life awareness month goes out of its way to honor donors, spread awareness, and celebrate the Donate Life community. By becoming an organ donor, you can save lives. 

Links:

Donate Life website –https://www.donatelife.net 

Donate Life merchandise store – https://www.donationmerchandise.com/ 

Become an organ donor –  https://www.donatelife.net/register/ 

Support the Donate Life organization – https://www.classy.org/give/208615/#!/donation/checkout