Click to donate organs: Sign up at Gift of Life Michigan

Here's something I came across during my daily news scanning awhile back that I've been meaning to post. It's an editorial from the executive director of the Gift of Life Michigan addressed to all Michiganians.

"As we celebrate the holidays, please consider making the commitment to give the gift of life.

For those waiting for an organ transplant, the gift of life provides the chance for some to see their children grow up, the chance for others to attend school, and for each transplant recipient the opportunity to once again dream of a future. Quite simply, transplantation restores life.

Your decision to become an organ and tissue donor can save or enhance the lives of up to 50 people.

Fortunately, it is now easier than ever to sign up on the Michigan Organ Donor Registry, especially since January this year, when Secretary of State Terri Lynn Land and her staff joined forces with Gift of Life Michigan. It takes only a minute to add your name to the Donor Registry when you visit http://www.giftoflifemichigan.org/. You can also call (800) 482-4881 or visit a Secretary of State branch office.

When you sign up, be sure to have your Michigan driver's license or state ID number. Within 10 days, the Secretary of State will mail you a heart donor sticker to place on the front of your driver's license or state ID.

As the executive director at Gift of Life Michigan, I am privileged to see the miracle of life passed on to another and to experience the compassion of donor families who think about saving the lives of others while in the midst of their own grief. I'm inspired by donor family members who often share that their loss was eased by knowing others are alive today because of the organs and tissues donated by their loved one.

Organs such as lungs, hearts and livers save lives. Donated kidneys mean freedom from dialysis treatments. Bone and tissue transplants can restore movement to people with handicaps or crippling injuries, prevent amputation or literally bring sight to people who are blind.

Since 1993, there have been more than 15,000 organ and tissue donors in Michigan. Nearly half of the organ donors were living donors, sharing a kidney or portion of their lung or liver to help their child, spouse or sometimes even a complete stranger. Amazingly, this translated into 10,900 Michigan lives saved through the generous gift from each of these organ donors and many thousands more Michigan lives improved because of the gift of tissue."

Please take some time to sign up. It literally takes seconds, but could save several lives... and not only that, but you also get a cute heart on your license to boot! :)