COLORADO SPRINGS — National Donate Life Month is in April. It encourages Americans to sign 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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