ORGAN DONOR INFORMATION

During this season of giving, I am reminded of the nearly 80,000 people across the country who are currently on waiting lists for organ donations. Sadly, every day, 16 more people are added to that list and 14 will die waiting for lifesaving organ transplants. These numbers reflect the significant need to increase awareness about organ and tissue donation.

In 1997, the New York Task Force to Increase Organ and Tissue Donation was formed. The Task Force created an organ donor registry and, as of June 2002, signed up over 360,000 organ donors. To build on those efforts, this year, the Senate contributed $250,000 to the newly created New York State Alliance for Donation to create a public awareness campaign. We also sponsored a new law establishing a recognition program which awards the New York State Gift of Life medal to organ, tissue, and bone marrow donors who have given the greatest gift of all; the gift of life.

New Yorkers have a history of demonstrating their generous and compassionate nature in times of need. Those considering donation will be interested to know that one organ donor can save up to eight lives, while one tissue donor can improve the lives of up to 12 or more people. Through organ or tissue donation a heart could beat for someone else, kidneys could free people from dialysis, corneas could give sight, and skin could heal burn victims.

If you would like to join the many others who are giving the gift of life this holiday season, you may access the "Life...Pass It On" registry by clicking here. If you decide to register as a donor it is important that you discuss your decision with your family. Organ and tissue donation can be a very delicate issue during a difficult time and being aware of your decision will allow your family members to facilitate the organ donor process with the comfort of knowing they are fulfilling your wishes.

The most unselfish gift one person can give to another is the gift of life. It is a genuine act of kindness that will leave those impacted by this gift forever grateful for the commitment and wisdom of the donor.

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