FOR OUR 30TH ANNIVERSARY, LET'S CELEBRATE OUR ACCOMPLISHMENTS AND RE-ENERGIZE NEW YORK'S DONOR REGISTRY

This year, the New York Organ Donor Network marks its 30th anniversary. On May 15, 1978, the New York Regional Transplant Program, Inc. — later renamed the New York Organ Donor Network — was incorporated.

A good deal has been accomplished over the past 30 years. We are filled with deep humility and gratitude when we consider the love and generosity of our donors and their families. In the last five years alone, 1,381 deceased organ donors in the New York metro area saved 3,234 lives. That’s incredible. It’s what our mission is all about.

Looking back over three decades, breakthroughs include federal and state legislation in support of donation; approval of anti-rejection drugs, and a myriad of “firsts” in the advancement of organ, eye and tissue recovery and transplantation.

Of great significance was the establishment in June 2000 of a confidential computerized system for New Yorkers to register as donors. It is administered by New York State’s Department of Health. Donor cards can be lost, become illegible, or simply not be on hand at the critical moment. Registry enrollment is the most effective route to donation.

Paradoxically, transplantation’s very successes have led to huge increases in the number of patients adding their names to the waiting list, thereby considerably widening the gap between those who need transplants and those willing to be donors. Nearly 7,000 patients need organ transplants in our region.

Faced with this crisis, the singular message I wish to convey to every New Yorker in our 30th year is this: Please step up to the plate by enrolling in the New York State Organ and Tissue Donor Registry. When you have done so, encourage your family members and friends to do so as well.

While New York State lags behind the rest of the country in the percentage of individuals that are registered donors, I know that with determination and pride, we can turn that around. Let’s take New York to where it should be – number one in saving lives through transplantation and donation.

Enroll online in the New York State Organ and Tissue Donor Registry