In recognition of National Donate Life Month, Stewart Memorial Hospital and Clinics honored the gift of life this April through a meaningful internal campaign titled “Why We Give.” The initiative invited employees to reflect on a powerful question: Why did you choose to become an organ donor?
The responses were deeply personal and inspiring, offering a moving reminder of the profound impact a single decision can have on countless lives.
As part of the month-long observance, Stewart Memorial hosted educational outreach efforts to increase awareness about the ongoing need for organ, eye, and tissue donors. Informational resource tables were set up in the Lake City Clinic rotunda and the hospital’s main entrance, providing patients, visitors, and staff with materials and guidance on how to register as donors. The displays encouraged meaningful conversations and empowered individuals to consider taking the first step toward saving lives.
Employees also participated in Blue & Green Day on April 10, wearing Donate Life colors to show their support and help spark awareness throughout the community.
“Every story shared by our team carried a sense of purpose and compassion. It was clear that behind each decision to become a donor is a deeply personal connection to hope, healing, and helping others,” said Rachel Walters, Marketing Coordinator at Stewart Memorial.
The “Why We Give” campaign highlighted the voices behind the decision to give, reinforcing the importance of organ donation and the lasting difference it can make for individuals and families in need. Several employees shared their personal “why”:
Norma W. shared the story of her daughter, Mallory, who was born with biliary atresia. After multiple surgeries and being placed on the donor registry, Norma ultimately became a living liver donor for her daughter during a time when the procedure was still in its early stages. Although Mallory passed away in 1994, Norma’s experience continues to shape her advocacy. “If you’re even thinking about it, please consider being an organ donor,” she shared.
Jill Birks became an organ donor through her connection to a close friend. “I am an organ donor because of my friendship with Liz Markert. Her daughter Emily received two lung transplants, the first while she was still in high school,” she said.
Sandra Williams shared a family legacy of donation. “Eye donation is something my family is proud to be part of,” she said. Multiple members of her family have been donors, and her brother’s life was saved by a kidney transplant after years of dialysis. “So happy the donor’s family was able to change the ending to my brother’s life.”
Another employee shared their perspective after personally facing kidney cancer. “I lost a kidney due to renal cell carcinoma. If something were to happen to my remaining kidney, I could need a transplant. I want to give others the chance to live a normal life if they ever need that same gift.”
Paula Johnson shared how organ donation directly saved her brother’s life. “Doctors told us he had about three days to live,” she said. That same night, another family made the decision to donate. “If it wasn’t for that organ donor, my brother would not be alive today. I thank that family every day for giving us more time with him.”
An anonymous submission reflected on how personal inspiration can come from unexpected places. After watching the film Seven Pounds, the individual was moved by the impact one person’s donation could have. “It showed how one life, even in loss, could give others a second chance. That inspired me to want to do the same.”
Stewart Memorial is proud to highlight the compassion and generosity of its staff—people who not only care for others in life but also believe in the power of giving beyond it.
To learn more about organ donation or to register as a donor, visit www.donatelife.net.
