St. Joseph's takes state honors for work to promote organ donation

One organ donor can be a hero for up to 60 people in need of organ or tissue donation.

Because of its dedication to the community and as an extension of its healing mission, St. Joseph's Area Health Services embraces the Donate Life Minnesota initiative in a big, big way.

As a result, initiative sponsors including LifeSource and the Minnesota Hospital Association honored St. Joseph's recently with a Distinguished Participant award.

The work of St. Joseph's and St. Joseph's Auxiliary helped to promote and educate area communities about the importance the gift of life can bring to others in need. The initiative was set into motion when the Donate Life Minnesota flag was raised last August.

Local families shared tender stories during panel discussions hosted by St. Joseph's Auxiliary. Hubbard County's Driver's License Bureau displayed materials. Local media and the Park Rapids Chamber helped to spread the news. Donate Life widgits appeared on area business websites.

Before long new registrants began letting their intentions to become donors be known.

Donate Life Minnesota campaign leaders sought to get 100,000 new designated organ and tissue donors throughout the state. They exceeded that goal with more than 106,000 signing on since April 2010. Among them were St. Joseph's employees and area residents.

Now, as LifeSource goes forward to promote organ and tissue donation at the state, regional and national level, they are saying: "Here is what was done in Park Rapids, MNŠ"

To learn more facts about organ and tissue donation, or to register, visit www.DonateLifeMN.org.