SCOTTSBLUFF, Neb., ― In 2018, more than 36,500 transplants brought renewed life to patients and their families; yet, an average of 22 people die each day because the organs they need are not donated in time to save them.

In recognition of National Donate Life Month, Regional West encourages area residents to register as organ, eye, and tissue donors.

“Organ donation is the ultimate pay-it-forward gift,” said Regional West surgeon Rommie Hughes, MD, FACS, RVT. “The average wait time is numerous years. Thousands of people who would otherwise live a normal life are facing a shortened life due to the unavailability of organs.”

Currently, there are more than 114,000 men, women, and children nationwide waiting to receive a lifesaving organ transplant; countless others are in need of cornea, tissue, bone marrow, blood, and platelet donation. Organ donors have the power to help save up to eight lives, cornea donors can restore sight to two people, and tissue donors can heal the lives of up to 75 people.

“There is no downside to organ donation. It doesn’t change funeral arrangements, the presentation of the body, and there is no cost involved for the donor’s family,” said Dr. Hughes.

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.

Organ Donation

• People of all ages and medical histories should consider themselves potential donors. Your medical condition at the time of death will determine what organs and tissues can be donated.
• All major religions in the United States support organ, eye, and tissue donation and see it as the final act of compassion and generosity.
• There is no cost to the donor’s family or estate for donation. The donor family pays only for medical expenses before death and costs associated with funeral arrangements.
• If you are sick or injured and admitted to the hospital, the number one priority is to save your life. Organ, eye, and tissue donation can only be considered after you are deceased.
• To ensure your decision to become a donor is carried out, sign up online with Live On Nebraska donor registry: https://liveonnebraska.org/register/.
• Indicate your wishes on your driver's license or state ID when you apply for or renew it. Nebraska does not require family consent to carry out your decision to be an organ, eye, or tissue donor. However, keeping everyone informed will help avoid any confusion or delays.  

Regional West Health Services in Scottsbluff, Neb., is the parent company of Regional West Medical Center, a 188-bed regional referral center and one of three Level II Trauma Centers in the state. 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 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.