SCOTTSBLUFF, Neb., ― In recognition of National Donate Life Month this April, Regional West encourages community members to register as organ, eye, and tissue donors.

Last year in Nebraska more than 1,000 heroes gave the gift of life through organ, tissue, and eye donation. Each donor has the potential to save eight lives through organ donation and help heal 100 people through tissue donation. However, more than 300 Nebraskans and 100,000 people in the United States are waiting for a lifesaving organ transplant.

“Organ donation is the ultimate pay-it-forward gift,” said Regional West surgeon Rommie Hughes, MD, FACS, RPVI. “Registering to be an organ donor is a wonderful way to help change lives.”

Regional West encourages all families to discuss organ donation. Making the decision for yourself in advance makes it easier for your family during a difficult time. Registering as a donor ensures your decision to become a donor is carried out upon your death. You can register as a donor anytime at LiveOnNebraska.org/ref/DLM2023, or check the box to be an organ donor when you get or renew your driver’s license.

Regional West Health Services in Scottsbluff, Neb., is the parent company of Regional West Medical Center, a 188-bed regional referral center and the only Level II Trauma Center in Nebraska west of Kearney. As the region’s only tertiary referral medical center, Regional West offers care that spans more than 32 medical specialties provided by over 28 physician clinics. With nearly 300 in-network providers and approximately 2,000 employees, Regional West provides comprehensive and innovative health care services for the people of western Nebraska and the neighboring states of Colorado, South Dakota, and Wyoming.