There are some things that just can’t be adequately expressed in words, like the opening ceremony of the U.S. Transplant Games held at the Alliant Energy Center Saturday night. But keep in mind, really, you had to be there to understand.
The traditional procession of teams from 42 states and regions featured the 1,200 athletes, ranging in ages from two to a very fit 85. There was a lot of enthusiasm — excitement over the coming competition, but also a lot of personal pride about what these transplant survivors had overcome.
Following the competitors came the procession of living donors. These were the people who had given up an organ to provide life for a loved one. It was touching, but like I said, words can’t describe the emotions.
Then finally, a procession of hundreds and hundreds of donor families. More heroes among the many heroes present. These were the families who had lost a loved one, but had the comfort of knowing the donated heart, lung, pancreas, liver or cornea was enhancing the life of someone who otherwise might also be gone. There were tears, smiles, and hand-made signs of remembrances. Many of these donor families had a chance to meet and get to know the appreciative (again, words don’t do justice) transplant recipient.
The three-day event has a major purpose of raising awareness of the medical advances that allow the miracle of organ transplants to be almost routine. Unfortunately there’s still an imbalance between donors and those in need. The waiting list runs over 100,000 and some who might get a new life will run out of time before a suitable donor is found.
There is something important that any of us with a Wisconsin driver’s license can do. Register to give the gift of life by visiting https://health.wisconsin.gov/donorRegistry/public/donate.html and clicking “Yes, I will donate.”
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