The VCU chapter of Student Organ Donation Advocates (SODA) is partnering with VCU Health Hume-Lee Transplant Center to hold a “Check the Box” event next Tuesday, April 16. This effort is part of National Donate Life Month – a time to bring awareness to the life-saving decision of organ, eye and tissue donation.
“It’s not a coincidence to me that when you sign-up to be an organ donor you get a heart added to your driver’s license,” said David Bruno, M.D., interim chair of Hume-Lee Transplant Center. “That donation really is a symbol of love.”
Student volunteers, advocates, and representatives from Hume-Lee hope to raise awareness about the simplicity of a decision typically made when you register for a driver’s license – the choice to donate life.
VCU SODA founder Ria Mohan is passionate about the cause because of her aunt’s health care journey to find a kidney donor.
“Transplants truly save an entire community, touching the lives of everyone connected to the recipient and donor. It opens a well of compassion and opens our eyes to recognize and appreciate the humanity that moves healthcare forward,” Mohan said.
- WHAT: “Check the box” drive to encourage students to become organ donors.
- WHEN: Tuesday, April 16, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
- WHERE: Compass on VCU Monroe Park Campus
- WHO: Students, donors and representatives from Hume-Lee will be on hand to answer questions about organ donation.
