April is Donate Life Month, and Jefferson County Health Center (JCHC) is proud to honor organ, eye, and tissue donors while raising awareness about the lifesaving impact of donation.
Throughout the month, JCHC will engage staff, patients, and the community through
education and meaningful tributes to those who have given or received the gift of life.
JCHC will share educational materials on social media to highlight the importance of organ
donation and encourage individuals to register. A special training session for staff will provide
additional education on the donation process and how to support patients and families in
making informed decisions.
In the hospital lobby, a Donor Memorial Wall will serve as a place of tribute. Community
members are invited to add the name of a loved one to the display, whether they were a donor
who selflessly gave the gift of life or a recipient whose life was transformed through the
generosity of another. To maintain privacy while honoring their legacy, participants are
encouraged to write a non-descript name such as “Father,” “Friend,” or “Loved One.”
A special outdoor display will also be created in honor of those impacted by organ donation.
JCHC will place 130 pinwheels in the front garden to recognize the Iowa organ donors who gave
the gift of life in 2024. More than 600 additional pinwheels will represent the Iowans who are
still waiting for a lifesaving transplant. A sign next to the display will encourage visitors to learn
more about organ donation and consider registering as donors.
On National Blue and Green Day, April 12, JCHC invites staff and community members to wear
blue and green as a show of support for organ donation awareness. Additionally, the Donate
Life flag will be flown at JCHC throughout the month, and the hospital’s exterior sign will be
illuminated in green as a symbol of hope and remembrance.
“Organ donation has the power to change lives, and we are honored to recognize those who
have made this selfless choice,” said Shelly Adkison, Education Coordinator at JCHC. “By raising
awareness and providing ways for our community to participate, we hope to inspire more
people to consider registering as donors.”
For more information on organ donation and how to register, visit iowadonornetwork.org.
