April is National Donate Life Month. Over 121,000 people are currently awaiting an organ transplant in the United States. On average, 18 patients die every day waiting for a lifesaving organ that doesn’t become available in time.
LifeNet Health, a federally designated organ procurement organization, is partnering with University Healthcare during the month of April to encourage individuals to consider registering as an organ, eye and tissue donor.
One organ, eye and tissue donor can save the lives of up to nine organ recipients, enhance the lives of more than fifty tissue recipients, and bring sight to two cornea recipients. Last year, there were more than 28,000 transplants in the U.S.
Throughout the month of April, both Berkeley Medical Center in Martinsburg and Jefferson Medical Center in Ranson will be flying their Donate Life flags. On April 14, information on National Donate Life Month will be on display in the hospital lobbies beginning at 8 am. Later that morning at Berkeley Medical Center, double lung transplant recipient Chuck Price will be available to talk about organ donation.
“University Healthcare is partnering with LifeNet to increase awareness in our hospitals and in our communities of the importance of registering as an organ, eye and tissue donor,” stated Teresa McCabe, vice president of marketing and development. “We all have the power to save lives and Be A Hero by becoming a donor,” she added.
Many individuals have already registered through the DMV and there is nothing else needed other than making family, friends and co-workers aware of the decision. For those who haven’t registered or who want more information, visit www.DonateLifeWestVirginia.org.
