There is a critical need for Native American organ and tissue donors.
1,000 native Americans are waiting for someone to donate the organ that will save their lives. Most – approximately 85% - are waiting on a kidney. Many will not find an organ donor in time.
The shortage of organs for transplant affects all ethnic and racial groups – more than 17 people die every day waiting for an organ.
The shortage of organs for transplant affects all ethnic and racial groups – more than 17 people die every day waiting for an organ.
The shortage is especially critical in Native American communities where diabetes is common, and the rate of end-stage renal disease is rampant. Native Americans wait the longest of any racial or ethnic group in the United States between beginning kidney dialysis and receiving a deceased donor kidney transplant.
Sherri Eades is Mississippi Choctaw but is enrolled in the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma. She was able to honor her mother’s decision to be a donor to allow the circle of life to continue for others.
Her mother was incredibly generous. Most people in her community remember her food – because she was a great cook. She would cook for others as a gift of hospitality.
Shortly after she had passed away, LifeShare called Sherri to ask if her mother would want to be a tissue donor. Sherri's mother had previously shared her wishes with her family about donation and the family followed those wishes, remembering her generous and loving spirit, knowing the donation would impact others.
“Becoming an organ donor can create your legacy. You can continue with your heritage and bloodline if you consider being a donor,” said Sherri.
It is imperative that all people, especially Native Americans, register to be a donor and share their decision about donation with their family and tribe. One small decision about donation could impact more people in Native communities allowing the circle of life to continue.
Sherri Eades is Mississippi Choctaw but is enrolled in the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma. She was able to honor her mother’s decision to be a donor to allow the circle of life to continue for others.
Her mother was incredibly generous. Most people in her community remember her food – because she was a great cook. She would cook for others as a gift of hospitality.
Shortly after she had passed away, LifeShare called Sherri to ask if her mother would want to be a tissue donor. Sherri's mother had previously shared her wishes with her family about donation and the family followed those wishes, remembering her generous and loving spirit, knowing the donation would impact others.
“Becoming an organ donor can create your legacy. You can continue with your heritage and bloodline if you consider being a donor,” said Sherri.
It is imperative that all people, especially Native Americans, register to be a donor and share their decision about donation with their family and tribe. One small decision about donation could impact more people in Native communities allowing the circle of life to continue.
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