Before a life can be transformed through a transplant, someone makes a decision. Often years before, this choice will one day mean everything to someone else. Five million people have made that life-changing decision in that state of Arizona. This number represents more than registrations — but rather people who said “yes” to give life, hope and healing to someone they may never meet.
What does it mean to register as a donor?
With a number like 5 million, let’s revisit what exactly that decision means to so many Arizonans. Being a registered organ donor means that, one day, you can have the opportunity to give the gift of life to up to eight people in need of a second chance.
Just one person can help save and heal up to 75 lives as an organ and tissue donor. Organ donation offers a second chance at life for someone on the national organ waiting list, and tissue donation offers quality of life for burn victims, restored vision, joint replacements and much more.
Comfort through Sorrow …
Julissa Rose Garcia’s story is a testament to the power of donation. After losing her life in an ATV accident, she went on to give the gift of life to others.
Even before, Julissa’s family knew how life-changing organ donation can be, with several family members being organ recipients. Her family’s donation journey has been nothing short of “inspiring,” according to Julissa’s uncle, Chris Alvarado. He continues to honor and celebrate his niece as a donor hero.
Why 5 Million Still Isn’t Enough
Over 60% of Arizonans have said “yes” to generosity. This yes is now more important than ever — with 103,000 people on the national transplant waiting list, a little over 1,400 of them reside in Arizona. Our hope is to see that number reach zero.
How Can I Contribute?
Anyone can register as an organ and tissue donor. Most religions support donation as an act of generosity and gift of life, and there are no health requirements or age limits to hope and generosity!
We encourage everyone to check their registration status, and if you’re not sure, you can re-register. All duplicates are checked and removed automatically by the DonateLifeAZ Registry.