By Kent Davis and Mike Smith
PEORIA, Ill. (25 News) – Peoria County is recognizing National Donate Life Month, and Monday morning, the coroner’s office made it official with a proclamation.
That proclamation at the Peoria County Coroner’s office was an important one. It highlighted a month when groups raise awareness of the good done by organ and tissue donation and encourage people to sign up as donors.
According to a U.S. government survey, 93-percent of American adults support organ donation, but less than 60% are registered to do so.
It is why Peoria County Coroner Jamie Harwood is teaming up with “Gift of Hope,” a donor network that serves more than three-quarters of northern Illinois.
“There are so many myths and legends out there about organ donation,” Harwood tells 25 News. “We just want to help families and give hope. That’s what it’s all about.”
Among the speakers at Monday morning’s gathering was Zelena Winters, whose daughter joined the registry before her death two years ago.
“I mean, through my grief and pain, I thought, wow, I’m so proud of you. You’re helping other lives to continue to go on,” Winters said.
According to Gift of Hope, a donor can save eight lives through organ donation and help dozens more through tissue donations, such as skin grafts.
Winters explained that donation can be a great comfort.
“Words cannot express that a part of her is still alive and living in someone else, who, if she didn’t make the decision to become an organ donor, might not be here now,” Winters continued.
Those interested in helping the cause can register as a donor with the Secretary of State’s office. Winters encouraged those wanting to help to do so.
“Give someone else a chance to finish living their life out. You’ve lived your life. Be a blessing,” she said.
Comments