SGMC Health Recognized for Commitment to Organ, Eye, and Tissue Donation

SGMC Health was honored with a Platinum award for its efforts to increase organ, eye, and tissue donor registrations across Georgia.

This recognition is part of the DoNation Campaign, a nationwide initiative that engages workplaces to emphasize the critical mission of organ and tissue donation and transplantation.

In partnership with LifeLink® of Georgia, the state's organ and tissue recovery program, and Donate Life Georgia, the official state donor registry, SGMC Health conducted extensive organ donation education and donor registration activities from October 1, 2023, to September 30, 2024.

SGMC Health's hospital campuses at Main, Berrien, and Lanier were among 87 hospital partners within the LifeLink® service area. The system actively promoted organ donation through impactful activities, including flag-raising ceremonies, honor walks, and media initiatives. These efforts resulted in new donor registrations, directly contributing to the lifesaving mission of Donate Life Georgia.

"Organ donation is a profound act of love and generosity that transforms lives," said Brian Sayre, Director of Chaplain Services. "At SGMC Health, we are honored to support this sacred gift, providing comfort and care to donors and their families as they share the ultimate expression of hope. It is a privilege to witness the courage and compassion that makes the gift of life possible."

The need for organ donors remains critical. Nationally, more than 103,000 individuals are on the transplant waiting list, including over 3,000 in Georgia. Tragically, 17 people in the U.S. die each day waiting for a transplant, while another person is added to the list every nine minutes. These statistics highlight the urgent need for more registered donors.

Anyone can register as an organ, eye, and tissue donor, regardless of age or health. The decision can be made while obtaining a driver's license through the Department of Driver Services, purchasing a hunting or fishing license through the Department of Natural Resources, or online at www.DonateLifeGeorgia.org.

For more information about the DoNation Campaign, visit www.organdonor.gov/professionals/workplace.