Wall of Heroes, El Paso, Texas

Posted on November 17, 2010 by rleger | Southwest Transplant Network

The Wall of Heroes in the University Medical Center in El Paso, Texas, is not a typical shrine of recognition. It is not specific to those who have lost their lives in the line of duty. There is no age requirement. It is not based on faith or religion. In fact, there is only one connection between the people on the Wall of Heroes: Each person has donated organs, saving the lives of others.

What began with a family’s request in 2005 has developed into a wall of over 50 names, photos and organ donation stories. Each organ donor is given a place on the wall, honoring his or her contribution to the lives of others. It helps to bring up the organs donation conversation, and encourages families in crisis to consider this important option. Weighing organ donation pros and cons with family members is important, and the Wall of Heroes provides an outlet to those who are having trouble finding ways to strike up the conversation with family members.

In Texas, people wishing to donate organs and tissue can register through Donate Life Texas. Registering online as an organ donor ensures your decision is carried out, and removes the burden of making tough decisions about organ donation from a family already dealing with crisis. Registering online turns your decision into a legally binding agreement, and helps hospitals coordinate and facilitate organ donation throughout Texas and the rest of the United States.

The Wall of Heroes in El Paso has helped to turn stories of tragedy into stories of hope. For each picture on the wall, up to seven different lives have been saved. In addition, those who have made the choice to become organ donors through their visit to the Wall of Heroes have the opportunity to save hundreds, if not thousands, of more lives.

If you are interested in learning more about organs donation, contact Southwest Transplant Alliance at www.organ.org.