Hopefully most of us would jump at the chance to show our altruistic side and give to someone in need.
There are numerous ways to better the lives in the communities around us, or the lives of people in countries that are thousands of miles away.
One of the best ways that we can use our lives, however, is to give life to others through organ donation.
The “Life Takes Guts” organ and tissue donor drive started in early March is headed by Mountain Region Donor Services (MRDS) in conjunction with ETSU.
Various student organizations will be involved in a competition for a good cause when they try to get as many donor cards signed as possible.
The student organization that obtains the most signatures on the petition forms will win 50 movie theatre tickets for Carmike 14 Cinemas and get recognized at Lamb Lecture in the Culp Center Auditorium on April 5.
There is much more of a need for organ donations than people think.
The need is critical, and Mountain Region Donor Services is striving to increase awareness through public and professional education.
Nation-wide, there are over 75,000 people in need of an organ, not counting the over 500,000 that are in need of some sort of tissue donation.
“In Tennessee there are over 1400 people who need transplants, and about 16 people die everyday because they are in need,” said Jennifer Kilby of the public education department at MRDS. “The need is so great that the waiting lists are always full.”
Studies have shown that this problem lies not with a shortage of organs for transplantation, but a shortage of donors. Almost everyone can donate something. Age has no bearing on whether someone can donate their organs.
Organs and tissues that can be transplanted include kidneys, heart, pancreas, liver, lungs, small intestine, corneas, skin, heart valves, bone, bone marrow, veins, tendons, cartilage and ligaments.
If you want to be a donor, one of the most important things to do is tell your family.
“Oftentimes there is much confusion amongst the family members as to what the deceased persons wishes were,” Kilby said. “The best thing is to be prepared and let your family know how you feel about it and what you want. Knowing their loved one’s wishes eases the decision for them.
“One very striking statistic is that only one organ and tissue donor can help over one hundred people.” Kilby said. “Imagine the impact that could have.”
Help save and improve the lives of thousands of people awaiting organ and tissue transplants. Use your life, and get a donor card during the
“Life Takes Guts” organ and tissue donor drive.
For more information regarding “Life Takes Guts” or National Public Health Week, call Mountain Region Donor Services at 915-0808 or toll-free at 1-888-562-3774.

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