Arizona Organ Donors Set New Lifesaving Records in 2025
Arizona reached extraordinary milestones in 2025, with organ donors saving more lives than ever before in Donor Network of Arizona (DNA) history. Thanks to this historic year of generosity, 1,083 lives were saved through organ donation statewide.
A Year of Unprecedented Impact
This record-breaking achievement was made possible by 421 selfless organ donors and their families across Arizona. Their generosity led to an astonishing 1,244 organs transplanted, giving thousands of people renewed hope and a second chance at life.
The spirit of giving extended beyond just transplantation. In 2025, 224,416 Arizonans registered as organ and tissue donors for the first time – reaching 5 million registered organ and tissue donors for the first time and strengthening the future of donation and transplantation across the state.
Together, these milestones reflect a powerful year of compassion, resilience and lifesaving impact.
The Ripple Effect
These milestones represent more than statistics. Behind every number is a person, a donor hero, a grieving family, a transplant recipient, a caregiver, someone still waiting for a second chance at life, and the people in their lives. Each has a story, and each story is rooted in generosity, courage and love.
One of those stories is Alyssa Louise Medina.
Known to family and friends as “Flaca,” Alyssa lived with contagious joy and a heart that radiated kindness. Creative, caring and deeply connected to the people around her, she had a way of making others feel seen and valued. Her light was felt everywhere she went.
In August 2023, Alyssa passed away following an accident. Amid unimaginable loss, her family made the courageous decision to honor Alyssa’s giving spirit through organ and tissue donation. Through her selfless gift, Alyssa saved three lives through organ donation and restored sight for two through her donated corneas.
Alyssa worked at Mayo Clinic, where her behind-the-scenes role supported safe surgical procedures and patient care, a reflection of her quiet commitment to helping others.
“If Alyssa could know she helped save and heal other people, I think she would smile that big, joyful smile of hers and say, ‘Of course. That’s exactly what I hoped for,’” her sister, Isabella Medina, says.
Today, Alyssa’s legacy continues through every life she has touched and every life she helped save. Her light did not fade – it was shared.
We Can’t Do It Alone
The historic progress made in 2025 was possible because of the selflessness of donors and their families, the dedication of our clinical and support teams, and strong partnerships across Arizona and the country. Together, these efforts led to meaningful, measurable improvements that translated directly into more lives saved.
Compared to the previous year, Arizona saw a 14% increase in organ donors. This outcome reflects the growing commitment of Arizonans to donation and the power of working together to save and heal lives.
You can be a part of the impact. Register TODAY as an organ and tissue donor here or when you apply for or renew your driver license or ID at an Arizona Department of Transportation office.