Let's boost organ donation to better than 50 percent

McCook Daily Gazette

Public officials are called upon to make all sorts of public appearances, and we know they enjoy some more than others.

We have a feeling there was no trouble getting a couple of public officials to Thursday's launch of April's Donate Life Month.

Dr. Joann Schaefer, chief medical officer and director of the Division of Public Health, and Beverly Neth, director of the Nebraska Department of Motor Vehicles, joined Gov. Dave Heineman and Lisa Carmichael, vice president of Donate Life Nebraska at the event.

Two of those officials, Dr. Schaefer and Ms. Neth, know first hand how important organ donation is.

Dr. Schaefer received a liver transplant in 2008, and Neth has twice received living kidney donations from relatives.

"Part of me is about to turn 4 years old," Schaefer said. "I wouldn't be here today without the generosity of my donor. His gift has given me a second chance to live my life and I will be eternally grateful."

And, Ms. Neth, who has twice received living kidney donations from relatives, is grateful her department plays such a big part in facilitating organ donation.

"The role the DMV plays in supporting organ and tissue donation is one of the most satisfying elements of my job," Neth said. "I'm especially pleased that Nebraskans will be able to show their support of organ and tissue donation through the new Donate Life license plate.