Yes, I Did!
Why register your intent to become an organ donor in the new Wisconsin Donor Registry? Organ, tissue and eye donation holds the promise of life for thousands of patients with life-threatening conditions and diseases. You can provide hope and meaning by simply stating, "Yes, I Will" be an organ, tissue and eye donor.
Here's why...
Share Your Story
Tell us why you're signing up for the organ donor registry. Share Your Story
Jess Hammond, RN
UW Hospital and Clinics Neuro ICU
"I view my decision to join the Donor Registry as the giving of two gifts.
If I sustained a devastating injury, I would be giving the gift of life to people whose lives have been put on hold while they wait for a transplant. This one decision could possibly save the lives of eight people.
The second gift would be for my family. As a nurse in the Neuro ICU, I see families struggle with the decision regarding donation. By joining the Donor Registry and talking to my family about my decision, I am able to make my wishes known and prevent them from having to make that choice for me. They would be able to take some comfort in knowing that something positive was coming from our tragedy, and to hopefully help them start the healing process."
Miline Linder
UW Medical Foundation Medical Transcription Service
"Seven months ago, I received a pancreas transplant at UW Hospital that has made such a positive change in the quality of my life. I am definitely going to sign up for the "Yes I Will Registry" to be an organ donor. I'm a strong believer that organ donation saves and improves lives, and I want to pass along that message.
My husband and I have had many opportunities to share my experience with family and friends since my transplant, and I've received many "it's a miracle" comments - and indeed, I agree. But it's only possible through the generous and selfless organ donations of others."
Mary Baliker
Assistant Director, Cancer Control and Outreach
"I was diagnosed with kidney disease when I was 9 years old. My kidneys failed a few years later and I went on dialysis before I was fortunate enough to receive a kidney transplant at UW Hospital and Clinics.
Many people do not realize just how precious life is until tragedy or illness hits. My transplant has allowed me to live a healthy, normal, good quality of life for the past 30 years.
I believe my transplant has also made me realize that each day is a gift. I hope I can make a difference in the life of someone else, just as someone has for me. Becoming an organ and tissue donor is truly a selfless gift. Say "Yes, I Will" to organ and tissue donation and sign up for the donor registry. I know I will be registering.
You can also join me this summer at the U.S. Transplant Games in Madison, July 30-August 4. I have participated in the national and international games and it's been one of the most amazing experiences of my life - to see so many people who have been given the gift of life through receiving a transplant.
We feel like the luckiest people in the world and cannot express the amount of gratitude we have for our donors, donor families and the transplant staff."
