Beech Tree News Network

Fans, Alumni, and Students raise awareness about organ donation

The University of Kentucky and the University of Louisville are keeping their rivalry and competitive spirit alive while inspiring thousands to join the Donor Registry with the 22^nd year of the Gift of Life College Challenge.

Starting November 1, both universities will engage in a spirited competition to determine which school’s community can register the highest number of new organ, eye, and tissue donors.  Since its inception in 2001, the Gift of Life Challenge has seen college students, faculty, coaches, and staff actively promote organ donation registration.

“Our mission is to make a difference in the lives of those in need through organ and tissue donation and transplantation.  As the number of registered organ donors increases, so does the potential for saving lives.  In this competition, there are no losers; every name added to the Donor Registry offers hope to those awaiting lifesaving transplants,” said Melissa Childress, Butler Co. Circuit Court Clerk.  “Just like a clutch player who makes the winning shot in the final seconds, registering as a donor is your chance to be a hero off the court.”

Each university is provided with a specific registration link for the donor registry to facilitate the sign-up process. On-campus events, social media campaigns, newsletter features, and donor registry sign-up stations on campus are utilized to increase education about donation facts, including the fact that there are no age and health limits to registering as a donor.  The challenge’s conclusion will see the winning school presented with the Gift of Life Challenge Trophy during the Battle of the Bluegrass men’s basketball game on December 21^st. 

“This annual challenge encourages fans, alumni, and students to register to give hop to more than 100,000 Americans awaiting a lifesaving transplant.  Everyone can register, and you are encouraged to share your decision with your family,” says Cardwell.  “Organ donors are game-changers and make a difference that lasts well beyond the final whistle.”

For more information about the Gift of Life Challenge or to register as an organ donor, visit DonateLifeKY.org.

About Donate Life Kentucky

Donate Life Kentucky envisions a world where no one dies waiting for a transplant.  Founded by the KY Circuit Clerks in 1992, the Donate Life mission is to educate and encourage Kentuckians to be registered organ and tissue donors to save lives.   The dollars contributed at KY Transportation Cabinet driver’s license counters and other philanthropic partners, including the Circuit Clerks, Kentucky Organ Donor Affiliates and Kosair for Kids, funds the statewide community outreach & public relations efforts to grow the Organ & Tissue Donor Registry.  For more info, call 1-866-945-5433, email [email protected], or visit www.donatelifeky.org.