East Montgomery Times

Every day, 17 individuals in the United States die while waiting for a life-saving organ transplant. This stark reality highlights the urgent need for increased awareness and action on organ and tissue donation. In recognition of National Donate Life Month, Roxborough Memorial Hospital has partnered with the Gift of Life Donor Program to promote organ and tissue donation throughout April.

Gift of Life encourages individuals to register as organ, tissue, and cornea donors through a quick process accessible at https://registerme.org/campaign/RMH or donors1.org. Richard D. Hasz, President and CEO of Gift of Life, stated: “Transplantation is one of the most significant advancements in the history of medicine. Still, the need for organs is far greater than the number available.” He emphasized their mission to educate communities about registering as donors.

Shawn Parekh, CEO of Roxborough Memorial Hospital, expressed: “As a health system, we at Roxborough Memorial Hospital recognize our unique position—not only to care for our patients’ physical health but also to inspire our community to embrace wellness in all facets of life.” Parekh highlighted the hospital's commitment to motivating more individuals to become organ donors.

Discussions with family members and friends about donor registration are encouraged due to its monumental impact—one organ donor can save up to eight lives while a tissue donor can enhance nearly 100 lives. Key facts include that anyone can be a potential donor regardless of age or medical history; approximately 5,000 children and adults in the region await transplants; kidneys are in highest demand nationally; multicultural communities represent 60 percent on national transplant lists due to prevalent conditions like diabetes.

Roxborough Memorial Hospital serves various Philadelphia communities since 1890 and is part of Prime Healthcare Services. Gift of Life Donor Program operates across Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Delaware serving millions by coordinating donations with numerous hospitals and centers.

The public is urged to foster compassion ensuring no one waits in vain for another chance at life by considering becoming registered donors.