National Tree of Life Ceremony to Honor Organ, Eye, and Tissue Donors

The United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) and Donate Life America (DLA) are set to host the annual National Tree of Life virtual ceremony on December 16 at 6:30 p.m. ET. This event serves as a poignant tribute to the thousands of organ, eye, and tissue donors who gave the gift of life in 2024, while also celebrating the numerous lives they saved and improved.

The ceremony, which will be live-streamed on Donate Life America's Facebook page, brings together members of the organ donation and transplant community to honor the legacy of donors from each state. This year's event will feature speakers including Jan Flanders, a tissue recipient and family member of an organ donor; Sam Dey, a heart recipient; and Samuel and Susan Kirton, a double lung recipient and caregiver.

A highlight of the ceremony will be the announcement of the Lisa Schaffner Community Advocate Award winner. This accolade, named after a former UNOS employee and passionate advocate who passed away in 2021, recognizes individuals who have made exceptional efforts to promote organ donation.

The significance of this event extends beyond mere commemoration. It serves as a powerful reminder of the profound impact organ donation has on individuals, families, and communities across the nation. By recognizing over 20,000 organ donors and tens of thousands of cornea and tissue donors, the ceremony sheds light on the critical importance of organ donation in saving and improving lives.

Maureen McBride, Ph.D., CEO of UNOS, emphasized the emotional resonance of the event, stating, "The Tree of Life event is a moving reminder of the tremendous loss, bravery and joy that organ donation and transplant bring, and the ripple effect it has on each of us." This sentiment underscores the complex emotions surrounding organ donation, from the grief of loss to the hope of new life.

David Fleming, DLA president and CEO, highlighted the event's role in providing support and solace to donor families. The ceremony not only honors recent donors but also celebrates the enduring legacy of all those who have given the gift of life in past years, creating a sense of continuity and community among those affected by organ donation and transplantation.

The National Tree of Life ceremony plays a crucial role in raising awareness about organ, eye, and tissue donation. By showcasing personal stories and honoring donors, the event has the potential to inspire more individuals to register as donors, potentially saving countless lives in the future. This ripple effect of awareness and action is a key objective of both UNOS and DLA in their mission to increase the availability of donated organs and tissues.

As the organ transplant waiting list continues to grow, events like the National Tree of Life ceremony become increasingly important. They not only honor those who have given the ultimate gift but also serve as a call to action for others to consider becoming donors. The ceremony's virtual format allows for wider participation, potentially reaching and influencing a broader audience.

The collaboration between UNOS and DLA in organizing this event demonstrates the unified effort within the organ donation community to address the critical need for donors. By bringing together various stakeholders, from recipients to donor families, the ceremony fosters a sense of unity and shared purpose in the mission to save and heal lives through organ donation.

As the National Tree of Life ceremony approaches, it stands as a testament to the power of human generosity and the ongoing need for organ donors. It serves not only as a memorial but as a beacon of hope for those awaiting transplants and a reminder of the life-changing impact one decision can have on countless lives.