National Donor Sabbath Observance

This weekend marks the annual observance of the National Donor Sabbath. This recognition occurs two weekends before Thanksgiving and includes three days of worship for most major religions practiced in the United States. It is time where faith leaders, donor families, transplant recipients, and donation and transplantation professionals participate in conversations, services, and programs to increase awareness about donation within their faith community. National Donor Sabbath encourages people to talk to their loved ones about their donation wishes, and to register to be an organ, eye, and tissue donor. This year, National Donor Sabbath takes place November 11-13.

Why National Donor Sabbath?

It is a misconception for many that donation goes against their religion. However, most major religions support donation as a humanitarian act of giving that is consistent with the altruistic and life-preserving traditions of these faiths. National Donor Sabbath encourages both religious and donation communities to share with others the importance of donation and transplantation and the potential to save and enhance lives that it provides. As most people turn to their faith leaders for help when dealing with end of life decisions, National Donor Sabbath provides an opportunity for these communities to share their views.

There are currently more than 120,000 men, women, and children who are waiting for a lifesaving organ transplant across the nation, and sadly, 8,000 people die each year waiting. National Donor Sabbath is an important opportunity to get the word out and get more people to understand the significance of donation. By educating the public on organ, eye, and tissue donation, we can help those waiting for a transplant to get a second chance at life.

How can you get involved?

• The first thing you can do is make sure that you are registered. You can register to be a donor at lcnw.org or at your local DMV.
• Tell others about National Donor Sabbath and how they can register to be a donor.
• Hold a community or church event and join the conversation.