Nationwide, there are about 65,000 people waiting for organ transplantation and there are about 20,000 transplants performed annually. There are far more people waiting for organs and a second chance of life than there are organs available. Schneider wants people to pay attention. It is a precious gift and my donor gave me 19 more months of life with my children. Just one organ and tissue donor can provide seven life saving organs and quality enhancing tissues for another 20 people.
Transplant experts say it is vital for families to discuss organ donation.
A recent study by LifeGift, the local organ procurement agency, showed that 94 percent of the respondents say they would be more likely to donate their loved one's organs had they discussed the subject first. Pick up a donor card, bring it home and talk to your family about what it means. Talk about how giving the gift of life is the ultimate gift. Schneider says she recently wrote a letter of gratitude to her donor's family because she has so much to be thankful for. Three years ago, she was so sick she had to send her children to live with relatives.