April is national Donate Life Month. At any given time there are over 100,000 people awaiting a life saving transplant. This is according to the Donate Life organization. The Coalition on Donation was founded in 1992. Renamed in 2006 to Donate Life, In their time they have registered over 165 million people to their organization.
Understanding Donation
Currently, donors can sign-up to donate organs in two ways. People can sign-up to be a deceased donor or a living donor. Deceased donors allow their organs and tissues to be distributed to those in need when the donor has died. Whereas, living donors give a kidney or partial liver donation to someone currently in need. Of the over 100,000 awaiting organ donation, 83% of those need a kidney transplant and 11% need a liver.
How Donations Help
As a result of donation, organs donation can save up to eight lives. Donation of eyes can help restore vision to two people. While, giving of tissue can help up to 75 people. On average, every 10 minutes, 10 people join the wait list. While, 20 people pass each day because they are unable to obtain a donation in time.
How You Can Help
Presently, there are many ways you can help the organization. First, there is monetary contribution. These can be a one time gift or a monthly contribution. Also, people or groups can set-up a fundraiser that benefits Donate Life. Additionally, you can become a Donate Life volunteer and provide education and awareness in your community. Lastly, the biggest way to help is to register to be an organ, eye and tissue donor.
The Merdes Law Firm has been helping injured Alaskans for more than 30 years. It’s who we are. And while we hope you never need us … We’re here if you do. ~ Ward Merdes
Sources: Donate Life
