National Donate Life Month in April gives WVU Medicine Camden Clark Medical Center an annual opportunity to raise awareness about the importance of registering as an organ donor and to pay tribute to those who have donated.

Accompanied by a flag-raising ceremony at the medical center, speakers emphasized the power to change — and save — lives through organ donation.

“One donor can potentially save up to eight lives through organ donation and heal more than 75 lives through tissue donation,” said Jennifer Gossett, clinical preceptor for cardiovascular services and co-chair of the hospital’s donor council.

Living donors are needed, as are those who register as organ donors — and inform their family of their decision — before passing.

Martha Dawson, vice president of quality and patient safety, reminded those gathered that 13 people die each day awaiting an organ.

Increased numbers of organ donors mean an increase in hope.

“These are the kinds of impacts that happen when people say yes to donate life,” said Jessie Borden, supervisor of donation program coordination with LifeLine of Ohio.

In fact, Brenda Hanes shared the results of her late husband’s decision to become a donor and help multiple recipients. She said “We got a letter in the mail saying that he made two people be able to see.”

That’s priceless for families struggling with their loss.

Supportive staff help families through the process to fulfill their loved ones’ wishes to donate. They are not alone as they navigate grief and hope at the same time.

Consider registering to become an organ donor — and, it cannot be stressed enough, let your loved ones know if you have done so. Consider whether you are able to become a living donor.

And remember, as Dawson put it, “These are not just numbers. They represent lives transformed, families given more time, futures restored.”