‘How Organ Donation Changed My Life’
In recognition of National Donate Life Blue & Green Day, organ transplant recipients and donors share the lifesaving impact of organ donation.
One organ donor can save up to eight lives, and living organ donors can help shorten wait-times for the more than 100,000 patients on the national transplant waiting list.
This National Donate Life Blue & Green Day, we join our transplant patients in raising awareness about the importance of organ, eye and tissue donation.
From being able to meet their first grandchild to paying it forward for others, hear from recipients and donors on how organ donation has brought hope and healing through the gift of life.
“I encourage people to be organ donors because you can have such an impact on the life you save and what you can do for that person.”
— Rachel Harper
Heart recipient, Jan. 5, 2022
“As long as I can remember, I have signed up to be an organ donor. Never did I think that I would be the recipient of someone else’s kindness when I needed a lung transplant. My family and I are forever indebted to the person and family that donated so that I may continue to live my life.”
— Harry Keeshan
Lung recipient, Feb. 2, 2022
“My liver transplant gave me ‘the gift of life,’ and it also enabled me to spend more time with my wife. We only have each other, and receiving a new liver means I get to keep my promise and be here for her.”
— David Marshall
Liver recipient, June 15, 2022
“Every one of us has an opportunity to rise to the occasion and forever impact the lives of other human beings by paying it forward. Here’s to the unsung heroes of the world who have selflessly provided the gift of life to another with organ donation. My heart will never forget your loving kindness.”
— Stephanie MacSwain
Kidney and pancreas recipient, July 1, 2022
“Donate Life Month is a reminder of recovery and the promise of spring and walks in the park. A memento of the power of love and family to help heal our bodies, the wonder of research and technology, the skill and expertise of the transplant team and the excellent care we received from the nursing staff.” — Forrest Reda
Liver transplant donor, Feb. 7, 2023
“Without a donor, I wouldn’t have a second chance at living my life worry-free.” — Ankush Tandon
Liver transplant recipient, Feb. 7, 2023
“To help somebody live to see their children grow up, their grandchildren grow up, or to just give somebody a second chance at life — it’s a wonderful feeling. I’ve never met a living organ donor that regrets their decision.”
— Steve Wilson
Kidney donor, Feb. 6, 2020
Additional Resources
Learn more about New York’s top transplant program.
See how you can sign up to become an organ donor.