Decisions about organ or tissue donations come for many families at difficult times because of sadness, stress or anxiety.
That’s why knowing the facts is important as you can educate and prepare your family about your decision to become a donor, and they will find peace knowing they’ve carried out your wishes.
Ministry Good Samaritan Health Center in Merrill is in the initial stages of planning for a series of activities to educate and promote the importance of organ and tissue donation. As part of that program, organizers are looking for interested family members who have been touched in some way by organ and tissue donation.
“Our goal is to find interested community members willing to tell their story and provide inspiration for others to become donors or begin the discussion with those close to them about the importance of organ and tissue donation,” said Sue Kruger, chaplain at Ministry Good Samaritan.
With approximately 40,000 people under the age of 50 currently on a transplant waiting list, anyone could someday be in need if a transplant. People with diabetes, high blood pressure, cystic fibrosis and other common illnesses are among those on the list waiting for organs. Examples of tissues that can be transplanted are blood, bones, bone marrow, corneas, heart valves, ligaments, saphenous, veins, skin and tendons.
If your family has been touched by organ or tissue donation and is interested in participating in this program, please contact Kruger at 715-539-2187 or sue.kruger@ministryhealth.org