Throughout April, we celebrate National Donate Life Month (NDLM), a time dedicated to raising awareness about the critical importance of organ, eye, and tissue donation. Established in 2003, this observance serves as a reminder of the countless lives saved and transformed through donation.
Organ donation is often the only answer for those grappling with end-stage organ failure, offering them a second chance at life. However, despite its proven efficacy, access to transplantation remains a challenge due to the shortage of available organs. With nearly 100,000 individuals on the national transplant waiting list, the need for donors is urgent. Tragically, 17 people die each day awaiting transplantation, underscoring the seriousness of addressing this issue.
Reflecting on my time as national co-chair of the Health Resources and Services Administration’s Organ Donation Breakthrough Collaborative in the early 2000s, I gained insights into the complexities surrounding organ procurement and transplantation. While GBMC may not be a transplant center, it is imperative that we amplify the message of organ donation and encourage participation in donor registries.
One person’s heart, lungs, liver, kidneys, pancreas, and intestines can be donated, giving each donor the opportunity to save multiple lives. Active cancer is the only automatic rule out for organ donation – there is no age limit. Moreover, organ donation transcends cultural and religious boundaries, with all major Western religions endorsing it as an act of altruism.
As we commemorate NDLM, let us honor those who have given the gift of life and offer hope to those awaiting transplantation. To register as an organ, eye, and tissue donor in Maryland, click here to join the Maryland Donor Registry. Your decision could be the lifeline someone has been waiting for.
Attention Physicians: Baltimore magazine’s Top Doctors Voting Has Opened!
Baltimore magazine’s Top Docs honor isn't just about individual accolades; it's about showcasing the collective excellence and expertise that define our healthcare system. Nominating a colleague not only shines a spotlight on the outstanding work of your peers but also underscores GBMC's commitment to providing the care we would want for our loved ones.
Nominate a colleague you respect and admire by June 3.
Occupational Health Nurses Week
April 7-13 is Occupational Health Nurses Week. Join in celebrating our occupational health nursing professionals who create a culture of health and safety in the workplace daily. Make sure to thank our employee health team today!
National Cancer Registrars Week
National Cancer Registrars Week is April 8-12! Thank you to our cancer registry professionals for collecting the important data that helps cancer researchers, healthcare providers and public health officers better monitor and advance cancer treatments.
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