Health Care Ministry




April is National Donate Life Month.
Each day at least 77 people receive organ transplants, but 19 die daily while waiting for transplants to come through due to shortages of available organs.

Many may wonder what exactly can be donated and what does organ donation entail. Organs such as the heart, kidneys, pancreas, lungs, liver and intestines. Tissue such as the cornea, skin, heart valves, bone blood vessels, and connective tissue. Bone marrow or stem cells can also be donated.

Minorities have a particularly high need for organ transplants. This is a result of the diseases that are found more commonly in racial and ethnic minority populations. Diseases of the heart, kidney, pancreas, lung, and liver.

Donors can be live or deceased depending on the organ or tissue being transplanted. Each organ and tissue donor saves or improves the lives of as many as 50 people.

If you are wondering how you may become a donor, it's very simple.

•   #1 Designate on your driver's license the desire to be an organ donor when you obtain or renew your license

•   #2 Complete and sign the "Organ/Tissue Donor Card." Carry it in your wallet at all times.

•   #3 Ensure your family is aware of your decision to donate your organs.

What better gift to give someone than a chance to live. Don't hesitate to "Give the Gift of Life."

Info obtained from www.organdonor.gov