"Say Yes"

This week I have had the pleasure of hanging out with Camp Bridges teen camp; a camp for teenage children who have received an organ transplant. Each year is a differnt theme and the theme of this year’s camp is “Bridges TV”.  During the week they have acted out several TV game and reality shows. Sunday they did an “Extreme Makeover” of our playground. Last night the fun continued with an awesome night of “Bridges Got Talent”. 

It has been a lot of fun and games but Wednesday night was their chance to be serious. It was their candlelight ceremony, a chance for each person to light a candle and tell what they are thankful for. The list ranged from “my mother and family” and “Dr. B (Dr. Mark Benfield) for what he did for me” to “Children’s Harbor, for donating this camp for us to use.” Among the many tears there were also some giggles as the children pointed out the lighter side of some of the campers and volunteers. After a couple of hours of listening to them pour their hearts out, I realized the one blessing they all shared; “my donor.”

Every time I renew my licenses I am asked the question, “Would you like to be an organ donor?”   I always say yes just because I think it is the right thing to do, but I never really give much thought to what a difference that could make one day.  As I sat there I realized, wow, this is what it means (not that I am ready to be a donor any time soon). But if my life ended prematurely, I would have one more opportunity to make a difference in the lives of individuals such as these young people. Without the unselfish act of an organ donor most of these children would not be here. Some share a kidney from a family member but most are alive because of a donor that they never knew.

Give it some thought and if you are not already a donor, the next time you renew your license and you are asked that question,” Would you like to be an organ donor?”  Please say “yes.”