This National Donate Life Month, let’s celebrate and honor our community
It’s a reminder about how much we need each other
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Prior to my double-lung transplant eight years ago, I didn’t know anything about organ donation. While living with cystic fibrosis (CF), I hadn’t connected with others who had CF, either. I started to dip my toes in these spaces as I approached the transplant evaluation process, finding comfort in those who had walked a similar path.
I never imagined how far the organ donation community reached, though. I’ve witnessed how it touches lives beyond what is openly seen. There’s no one-size-fits-all description of those who have a personal connection to the community. That kinship isn’t defined by career, age, gender, or ethnicity. Some are affected by the tragic loss of life when loved ones become donors, while others are on the receiving end of that gift of a new life.
Those who work for organ donation organizations tend to take their work seriously and view it as more than a job. It’s hard not to be profoundly affected, something that can’t be fully understood until one becomes part of this community. The ripple effect is endless.
Unlike any other community I’ve been a part of, there’s a common theme uniting us, and people seem to radiate gratitude and love. Strangers become family. People believe in miracles and are filled with joy to be advocating for something so deeply personal and precious.
Choosing to make a difference
My life was saved by my angel donor, and I have several friends who are alive because people said yes to being organ donors. It’s a radical transformation to experience personally. Our loved ones, donor families, and advocates are also transformed in some sense. None of us can do this alone, so it’s a reminder about how much we need each other.
I regularly have the opportunity to meet others in the community, both locally and abroad. Each person I encounter seems determined to promote awareness and education about organ donation. Often, they’ll share their own personal experiences. It never fails to amaze me what happens when people from all walks of life come together for a shared mission.
Just before Christmas last year, a group of us gathered — including advocates from the local Department of Motor Vehicles, New England Donor Services, a city mayor, a local judge, and other supporters — to promote organ donation awareness. I shared how organ donation has transformed my life, and listened as others shared their own testimonies. We laughed, cried, and hugged, united in our shared experiences.
April is National Donate Life Month, and I always get emotional at events that mark the occasion. It’s a reminder of the best that humanity has to offer.
Every time I attend a gathering, I’m filled with gratitude. Each person highlights how we can all choose to make a difference in the lives of others. It’s truly an honor to connect with people whom I otherwise never would’ve met.
As we celebrate National Donate Life Month, I’m incredibly humbled to be a part of this transformative community. While transplant isn’t an easy road to walk, I’m grateful my life can continue on because of my donor. Breathing with lungs that are new to me is a beautiful gift.
Note: Cystic Fibrosis News Today is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. The opinions expressed in this column are not those of Cystic Fibrosis News Today or its parent company, Bionews, and are intended to spark discussion about issues pertaining to cystic fibrosis.
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