Did you know the first kidney transplant was successfully performed in 1954. Organ transplantation has come a long way since then, but even with medical advancements today there more than 124,000 people on the organ transplant list (UNOS). Every 10 minutes a person’s name is added to the list and he or she waits for an organ – that’s 150 people per day! But, sadly, 21 people die everyday waiting to receive an organ that never comes.
1 organ donor can save the life of 8 people!
In 2014 more than 24,000 people received an organ or tissue donation while only 14,000 people were donors. You’re never too old to consider becoming an organ donor. And age doesn’t preclude you from RECEIVING an organ. There are infants and even grandparents on the transplant list. This month please consider giving the gift of life. There’s so many ways to give. Why not opt to donate blood or platelets? Or consider putting your name on the bone marrow registry list? Even better why not register to become an organ donor. Check out this link to find your state’s registry. http://organdonor.gov/becomingdonor/stateregistries.html
You never know the life you save may be the life of someone you love.
Wishing you great health,
Dr. V