Did you know that February 14th is National Donor Day? While this day may be overlooked by the Valentine’s Day celebrations and festivities, National Donor Day is an important day for us all, especially for those whose lives have been impacted by organ donors.
What is National Donor Day?
This is a day of observance that is used to spread awareness of the importance of organ donation. From blood, eyes, tissue, and various other organs, this special day is a reminder of how crucial donors are to our society at large.
National Donor Day acknowledges the brave and selfless people who have donated their organs to a person in need, those currently waiting for a donation, and those who have passed away while waiting for a donor.
When did National Donor Day start?
National Donor Day was established in 1998. It was started by the Saturn Cooperation and the United Auto Workers. To this day, it is supported by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
Roughly 22 people die each day waiting for an organ donation. Currently, there are about 100,000 people on the waitlist. 100,000 people who are eagerly, anxiously awaiting the day they get the phone call of their dreams telling them that they finally have a donation.
Organ donation history in Mississippi
The importance of organ donation was displayed right here in Mississippi. Did you know that, recently, UMMC was a part of the largest kidney swap in the state of Mississippi? Although some people were not matches for their beloved family members, they were a match for someone else who was in need. If you are open to donating any organs or blood, even if you feel like you may not be a match, consider donating anyway, as you could help someone and even save their lives.
A deeper meaning to Valentine’s Day
Valentine’s Day takes on a deeper meaning when you consider how lives are forever altered because of an organ donor. From kidneys to a heart, to blood, no donation goes unnoticed and unappreciated. While exchanging organs or blood may seem a bit grotesque of a topic amid the usual fluffiness of Valentine’s Day, it is one of the ways people can express their love for their neighbor.
You can make a difference
There are some organs and tissues we need to live. Of course, you cannot donate your heart while you’re still alive, but there are other ways to ensure that your vital organs are used to support the recovery and healing of another person. For example, you can opt in to be an organ donor when you renew your license. If you’re eligible to, you can donate blood at local blood drives.
Want to get involved?
No matter what type of donation is made, any donation is a lifesaver. There are many ways to get involved. As previously mentioned, you can get involved by signing up to donate blood or by selecting the organ donor option on your driver’s license. Additionally, you can speak to people in your community about their organ, tissue, or blood donation stories. Listening to the stories of those we commingle with daily is a constant reminder of how important it is to be an organ donor. What a wonderful way to express our love for others!
