It happens close to home

My interest in promoting organ/tissue/eye donation started many years ago when my sister was on a waiting list for a kidney transplant. She was diabetic, a nurse, in her early 30s and on dialysis three times per week. Her condition started to deteriorate and it was getting close to Christmas. My parents and siblings had only one thing on our wish list that year but no control over how to make that happen. We relied on the generosity of someone who was a designated donor. She received her kidney and we were afforded 20 more good years with her to celebrate the gift of life. Please, check the box on your license, tell your family and know how important your decision is for that other person who is waiting for a call each day.

The gifts of life and sight offer hope and healing

Just about everyone knows someone who has been impacted by organ, tissue or eye donation. Thousands of men, women and children in the United States are waiting for organ transplants that could save their lives. Each year approximately one-third of those people receive life-saving transplants and hope for a renewed life. This opportunity would never be possible if it wasn’t for the generosity of individuals who at a time of personal grief think of others in need. Despite this generosity, the need continues to grow.

Make a decision, make it legal, make it known

As part of Donate Life Month in April, please take a few minutes to register your choice to be an organ, tissue and eye donor. If you choose to be a donor and have not already documented your choice on your driver’s license or state ID card, you may register at www.donatelifemn.org. Registration is confidential and will help ensure that your wish to donate is fulfilled. Families generally want to honor the wishes of their loved one. By registering as a donor, you ease their mind so they don’t have to decide for you. If you already are listed as a donor on your driver’s license or state ID card, you do not need to register online.

Your decision saves lives

• You can help up to 60 people through organ and tissue donation
• Supported by many religions