Many Americans have responded to public awareness campaigns by signing a donor card or by indicating on their driver's licenses their willingness to donate. However, despite our best efforts and the development of worldwide transplant programs, the waiting list of those in need of donated organs or tissues continues to grow. The Department of Health and Human Services reports that a new name is added to our national waiting list every 30 minutes. As many as 25 percent of the patients waiting for specific organs will die before a well-matched donor is found. As compelling as these facts are, it is both fitting and proper that we pause to reflect carefully on organ and tissue transplantation.
Every donation is a profound act of personal sacrifice and generosity.
Every transplant underscores the power of medicine and the precious nature of human life. Because God has granted every person equal dignity and worth, because human life must always be treated with reverence and care, all Americans should give careful thought to becoming organ and tissue donors. This includes learning the facts about transplantation and discussing any moral and ethical concerns with one's family and doctor. When pursued in a thoughtful and reverent manner, organ and tissue transplantation is a medical procedure that reflects not only the highly sophisticated nature of our Nation's health care system but also the traditional generosity and compassion of the American people. I ask health care professionals, public and private service organizations, and all Americans to join in supporting this humanitarian cause.