Most of us have the luxury of not thinking much about organ donation. But we should.

“It’s one of the most profound gifts we can give, that transcends all boundaries and … saves lives,” said Brenda Hooper, intensive care unit clinical nurse manager at WVU Medicine Camden Clark Medical Center and the hospital’s organ donation liaison.

During an event last week at the hospital with Lifeline of Ohio, Ben Burns recounted his own realization after learning of the difference his father’s donation had made for a single mother in Texas. Now, he is an advocate — mentioning organ donation any time he hears of someone preparing to renew their driver’s license.

Lifeline of Ohio serves 38 counties in Ohio and two in West Virginia. In that service area in 2024, there were 169 organ donors and 608 lives saved. There were also 549 donors of tissue, 568 cornea donors and 737 placenta donors (the tissue is used in skin grafts to treat burns or wounds that will not properly heal).

And during this National Donate Life month, it is important to learn more about how simple it is to become one of those who saves or improves a life. First, register online through a state donor registry or the National Donate Life Registry; or register while getting or renewing your driver’s license or state ID. But just as importantly, communicate your decision to your family. Be sure they are aware of your wishes and do not impede your request.

In Burns’ case, he received a letter from the woman his father helped, which spurred him to advocacy. But reminders are all around us.

So, when you see the Donate Life flag flying outside a hospital this month, let it inspire you to decide to be a difference-maker, a life-saver — a hero.