On Feb. 11, 2022, the Washington state Senate formally recognized April as Donate Life Month with a resolution reading. The reading was sponsored by organ and tissue donation champion, Sen. Ann Rivers, of the 18th district.

Prior to the reading of the resolution, Sen. Rivers met virtually with Annabelle and Joe Pendon, the mother and stepfather of 20-year-old organ, eye and tissue donor Alex Encila. Annabelle chose to donate Alex’s organs and tissue so that her son’s giving spirit would live on. Alex saved six lives and healed many more through the donation of his corneas and tissue. 

Click here to read the official proclamation, signed by Gov. Jay Inslee, declaring April as Donate Life Month. This month will be dedicated to celebrating those who made the choice to give life through the donation of their organs, eyes or tissue so that others may thrive.

“Now, therefore, I, Jay Inslee, Governor of the state of Washington, do hereby proclaim April 2022, as Donate Life Month in Washington, and I call upon health care professionals, volunteers, educators, government agencies, faith-based and community groups, and private organizations to join forces to boost the number of organ and tissue donors throughout our state.”

Gov. Inslee