By Taryn Servold

Every April, we observe Donate Life Month, a national campaign to raise awareness about organ, eye, and tissue donation. It’s a time to honor the donors who gave the gift of life and to encourage others to consider registering as donors.

For me, Donate Life Month hits home. I’m living proof of what’s possible when someone chooses to give — even in the midst of unthinkable loss.

Organ Donation: The Facts That Matter

Organ donation often gets overlooked in everyday conversations, but the need is real — and urgent:

• There are over 100,000 people waiting for a transplant in the U.S., and around 85% of them need a kidney.
• Every 8 minutes, another person is added to the national transplant waiting list.
• 17 people die each day waiting for an organ that never comes.
• One organ donor can save up to 8 lives — and improve the lives of 75 or more through eye and tissue donation.
• Most people can be donors, regardless of age or medical history. Each case is reviewed individually at the time of death.
• Living donors can also save lives — particularly when it comes to kidney and partial liver transplants.

Despite all this, only about 60% of Americans are registered as organ donors, and the demand far exceeds the supply.

My Life After August 14, 2022

Since my transplant, everything has changed. I no longer need insulin. My kidney function is strong. I feel better than I ever imagined possible — not just physically, but mentally and emotionally, too.

Before the surgery, every day was filled with uncertainty. Now, I can plan. I can work. I can travel. I can enjoy life without constantly managing blood sugar and anticipating the fatigue of kidney failure.

And most importantly, I carry the legacy of my donor with me every single day. Their decision gave me a second chance, and not a day goes by that I don’t think of them — and their family — with the deepest gratitude.

How You Can Make a Difference

If you’ve ever wondered about becoming a donor, here’s how you can help:

• Register today at www.RegisterMe.org — it takes less than a minute.
• Share your decision with your family. In a time of loss, knowing your wishes can bring peace and clarity to your loved ones.
• Become a living donor. If you’re healthy, you could be the match someone desperately needs — today.
• Spread awareness, especially during April. Wear blue and green on April 19th for National Donate Life Blue & Green Day, and share your story or support online.

Final Thoughts

It’s easy to take life for granted — until you’re faced with losing it. I got my life back on August 14, 2022, thanks to someone I will never meet but will forever honor. That person — that donor — gave me more than just organs. They gave me freedom. They gave me time. They gave me tomorrows.”