When Lisa M. remembers her son, Robert, she thinks of a bright smile that could light up any room. “He was a loving and amazing young man,” she says. “He’s a son, cousin, grandson, brother, and friend who will always be loved and missed.”
As a young man, Robert had already made the selfless decision to become an organ donor.
“Before he passed, he told me he wanted to be an organ donor to help others,” Lisa recalls. Today, Robert's heart continues to beat in another person's chest, and his donated tissues have helped heal others in need. His story exemplifies the profound impact of organ donation, which is celebrated each February on National Donor Day.
“It's hard that he’s not here,” Lisa says. “But I’m so blessed to have had this beautiful soul in my life. To be his mother and have had 18 years of wonderful memories. He always had this beautiful light that will never fade.”
What is National Donor Day?
Observed each year on February 14th, National Donor Day shares a date with Valentine's Day. It is a fitting overlap, as both celebrations center around showing love to others. National Donor Day serves multiple purposes: honoring donors like Robert who have given the gift of life, celebrating recipients who have received donations, remembering those who didn't receive an organ in time, and supporting those currently waiting. The day also brings attention to all types of donation – organ, eye, and tissue – through donor registration events and educational outreach.
When did National Donor Day begin?
National Donor Day began in 1998 when the Saturn Corporation and United Auto Workers joined forces to raise awareness about organ donation in the United States. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services later followed suit and became key partners in this important effort, and the U.S. Postal Service released a specialty stamp dedicated to organ donation in 1998. Since then, the observance has gained momentum each year.
Why do we commemorate National Donor Day?
The impact of organ donation cannot be overstated. A single donor can save up to eight lives through organ donation, restore sight to two people through cornea donation, and heal more than 75 others through tissue donation.
Yet the need remains critical – over 100,000 people are currently waiting for lifesaving organ transplants. Behind each of these numbers is a person waiting for a second chance at life, surrounded by family members and friends hoping for a miracle.
How can you get involved with National Donor Day?
This February 14, consider advocating for organ, eye, and tissue donation in a way that feels meaningful to you. Here are some starting points:
- Register as an organ, eye, and tissue donor through Mid-America Transplant or your state registry.
- Have an open conversation with your family about your decision to become a donor, ensuring they understand and support your wishes.
- Encourage others to learn about organ donation and join the donor registry. National Donor Day is the perfect opportunity to raise awareness through conversation of the lifesaving benefits of organ, eye, and tissue donation.
- Share Mid-America Transplant or Donate Life America graphics and information on social media to raise awareness.
- Participate in local donor registration events in your community.
- If you have a connection to organ donation, consider sharing your story on social media.
As Lisa reflects on her son’s legacy, she sees how his choice to donate has inspired others. “His amazing spirit left an impact and inspired other families to donate, too,” she says. “I hope my son’s story will encourage others to share the gift of life and hope with others by registering as an organ donor. Robert is a hero and loved by so many.”
Robert’s story reminds us that organ, eye, and tissue donation is more than just the facilitation of transplantation – it’s a profound expression of human connection and compassion. As donor heroes, countless individuals like Robert continue to touch lives and create positive change in the world. This National Donor Day, you too can make a difference by signing up for the donor registry and increasing the chance that patients waiting will get the transplants they need to survive.