COLORADO SPRINGS — National Donate Life Month is in April. It encourages Americans tosign up to become organ, eye, and tissue donors.
On Friday, St. Francis Medial Center Staff, Donor Alliance employees, and a heart transplant recipient came together for a flag-raising ceremony in Colorado Springs.
Laura Jefferies with Donor Alliance says Colorado is one of the most generous states when it comes to signing up to become a Life Donor. Last year, there were 829 transplants in the state. However, between Colorado and Wyoming, there are still 1500 people waiting for a transplant.
Joe Kovarik received a heart transplant 20 years ago after being put on the donor list for a heart condition. He says since then, he's been able to climb mountains and spend time with his family.
"I've had 20 plus years now of not only enjoying [being active] but more importantly enjoying my daughter and my grandchildren who have grown up. I've watched them become adults, and I've been able to be a part of their life," said Kovarik.
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