TAMPA, Aug. 19, 2024 — LifeLink of Florida unveiled a new initiative aimed at increasing organ donor registrations across the state. The “Infinity Campaign,” launched August 19, seeks to highlight the enduring impact of organ and tissue donation, encouraging Floridians to consider the profound legacy they can leave by becoming registered donors.
The campaign is symbolized by the infinity symbol, representing the ongoing life that organ donors provide to recipients. In Florida, nearly 5,500 people are currently awaiting organ transplants, and many more could benefit from tissue donations. Despite these staggering numbers, the state faces a shortage of donors, particularly from diverse communities.
Statistics show that only 30% of Florida’s registered organ and tissue donors are Hispanic, and a mere 3% are Black, while 60% of those waiting for transplants come from racial and ethnic groups that experience higher rates of conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease—factors that contribute to organ failure.
One of the faces of the Infinity Campaign is Frankie Aviles, a Pinellas Park resident who became an organ donor after witnessing the impact of organ donation firsthand. Aviles’ father lived six years longer than expected thanks to a heart transplant, an experience that motivated Frankie to register as a donor himself. “I hope that through me an organ recipient would be able to enjoy one more embrace from a loved one, to have that extra time. To give that to somebody would be very magical,” Aviles said.
Through partnerships with hospitals and support for donor families, LifeLink of Florida facilitates the life-saving process of organ and tissue donation. In 2023 alone, 340 donors in Florida provided organs and tissues for transplantation, giving new life and hope to countless individuals. However, with thousands still in need, the campaign underscores the critical need for more donors.
“The Infinity Campaign is about showing how your life story continues through the lives you save,” said Susan Rabel, Vice President and Executive Director of LifeLink of Florida. “Each day, we are reminded of the invaluable gift of life through the generosity of our donor families. Their decisions not only save lives but create lasting legacies that extend far beyond their time with us.”
The campaign features real stories from registered donors like Aviles, aiming to inspire others to follow in their footsteps. LifeLink has also launched a website, mystorycontinues.com, where Floridians can register as donors, share their stories, and learn more about the life-saving impact of organ and tissue donation.
LifeLink of Florida encourages all Floridians to consider becoming organ, eye, and tissue donors. Registration can be completed online at mystorycontinues.com or in person at local Tax Collector’s offices during driver’s license or ID card renewals.
For more information on the Infinity Campaign and LifeLink of Florida, visit www.LifeLinkFoundation.org.
SOURCE: https://www.wfla.com/bloom-tampa-bay/bloom-health-and-wellness/lifelink-of-florida-launches-infinity-campaign-to-inspire-more-donations/