NY Politics

APRIL IS NATIONAL DONATE LIFE MONTH

A message from the desk of Brian M. Kolb, New York State Assembly Minority Leader:

Organ donation saves lives. Sadly, there are thousands of individuals on waiting lists who may not be able to receive the kidney, heart or liver they so desperately need. This month, join me in raising awareness of an important and lifesaving initiative aimed at matching donors with those waiting — National Donate Life Month.

Right here in the Finger Lakes Region, 771 people are hoping for a miracle. It is within our power to help them have a fighting chance with a simple registration. Each one of us could do so much good by becoming a registered donor. Organ, eye and tissue donations are critical to the lifesaving efforts of healthcare providers in New York and across the nation. Please, take time this month to become someone’s beacon of hope.

THERE ARE MANY AVENUES OF PARTICIPATION

Both Donate Life America and Pass Life On are great resources for those interested in donating or learning more about how you can help spread awareness. Donate Life has adopted the Maya Angelou quote, “Be a rainbow in someone else’s cloud” for this year’s campaign— an inspiring sentiment.

Pass Life On has a direct link to join the New York State organ donor database. It offers both online registration and a print enrollment form. According to its website, each donor could potentially save eight lives. Naturally, they would impact many, many more.

AN ISSUE CLOSE TO THE HEART OF THE ASSEMBLY

Part of the late Assemblyman James Conte’s lasting legacy was his fierce advocacy for organ donation. Sadly, in 2012, our Assembly family lost Jim too soon. But we honor his memory by picking up where he left off. In fact, as noted on my driver’s license, I am an organ donor in honor of Jim. Each April, I am reminded of Jim’s courage and his dedication to those he served.

I am also proud to support legislation (A.10046, Walsh) to help ensure medical examiners and coroners in New York follow protocols enhancing organ donation opportunities. Together, with awareness, legislation and New Yorkers willing to step up for their communities, we will truly be able to make a difference to those fighting for their lives.

What do you think?  I want to hear from you. Send me your feedback, suggestions and ideas regarding this or any other issue facing New York State. You can always contact my district office at (315) 781-2030, email me at kolbb@nyassembly.gov, find me by searching for Assemblyman Brian Kolb on Facebook, and follow me on Twitter.