“If I can just add one name to the registry, I can save eight lives,” 2024 Volunteer Champion and two-time heart recipient Chris Kowalski shared in a special video message to a packed conference center.
The efforts of volunteers like Chris were celebrated at the Ann Arbor headquarters of Michigan’s organ and tissue donation program on Aug. 13.
More than 100 donor families, volunteers, community leaders and advocates gathered for a unique glimpse behind the scenes. Visitors received a tour of the Donor Care Center and murals, insight into the donation process and an up-close view of what happens in the laboratory where Michigan organ donors are matched with potential recipients at transplant centers in Michigan and other states.
In addition to honoring the work of volunteers, Gift of Life’s educational efforts were on display thanks to a powerful video highlighting the All of Us high school education program. Pam Sawhney, Gift of Life governing board member and longtime supporter of All of Us, spoke about the importance of education in growing the Michigan Organ Donor Registry. She and her husband Krishna gave the largest financial donation in Gift of Life’s history – $125,000 over five years – to sustain the statewide program. She told attendees no gift is too small, and no gift is too large.
Local and state legislative leaders were also in attendance, including Congresswomen Debbie Dingell and Hillary Scholten. Both healthcare advocates addressed the critical work and efforts to save lives through organ and tissue donation in this state.
“Gift of Life is the second oldest organization of its kind in our nation, and has served as a model for others,” Congresswoman Dingell said. “We must keep working to make sure that those who need hope, have hope. To educate people on the importance of it.”
“We can all play a role in saving lives by joining the Organ Donor Registry,” said Congresswoman Scholten. “I’m so proud to be a registered organ donor and we can all encourage others to join the registry.”
Gift of Life hosts an open house at least once a year, typically in August. Anyone wishing to see the headquarters for Michigan’s organ and tissue donation program is encouraged to email info@golm.org. Gift of Life accommodates group tours any time of the year.
