February 14

Organ Donor Day

Save lives and give the gift of hope by becoming an organ donor on Organ Donor Day - one small act can make a huge impact.

Yearly Date

February 14

Observed in

United States

Introduction

Show some love this Valentine's Day by celebrating Organ Donor Day on February 14! This day is all about raising awareness for the importance of organ donation and honoring those who have selflessly given the gift of life. Did you know that this holiday was first established in 1998, by a group of organ donor families and transplant recipients? It has since been recognized by several countries around the world, with events and activities aimed at encouraging people to register as organ donors. So spread some love and kindness this Valentine's Day by learning more about organ donation and how you can make a difference.

Organ Donor Day Timeline

1954

First Successful Kidney Transplant

Dr. Joseph Murray and Dr. David Hume perform the world's first successful kidney transplant at Brigham Hospital in Boston.

1967

First Heart Transplant

Dr. Christiaan Barnard performs the first successful human heart transplant in Cape Town, South Africa.

1984

National Organ Transplant Act

The U.S. Congress passes the National Organ Transplant Act, which establishes the national network to manage organ procurement and transplantation.

1998

Organ Donor Day Establishment

Organ Donor Day is established by a group of organ donor families and transplant recipients to raise awareness and encourage people to register as organ donors.

2006

Facebook Introduces Organ Donor Status

Facebook introduces the organ donor status feature, allowing users to share their donor status and information about organ donation on their profiles.

2020

Record Number of Transplants

Despite the COVID-19 pandemic, the U.S. sees a record number of organ transplants performed in 2020, highlighting the perseverance of the organ donation and transplantation community.

How to Celebrate Organ Donor Day

1 Register as an organ donor

The best way to celebrate Organ Donor Day is by taking action and registering to become an organ donor. Your selfless decision could save someone's life in the future.

2 Spread awareness

Use your voice and social media platforms to spread awareness about the importance of organ donation. Share information, personal stories, and resources to educate others about the impact of being an organ donor.

3 Donate blood

Blood donation is also a form of organ donation as it can help save the lives of those in need of transfusions during surgeries or treatments. Celebrate Organ Donor Day by donating blood to a local blood bank or hospital.

4 Thank an organ donor

If you know someone who has donated an organ, take the time to thank them for their selfless act. Share your gratitude and let them know how much their donation means to you and others in need.

5 Organize a fundraiser

Raise money for organizations that support organ donation and transplantation. This can be done through a charity event, online fundraiser, or simply by donating directly to a reputable organization.

Why Organ Donor Day is Important

It can save lives

Donating your organs can potentially save the lives of up to eight people, according to Donate Life America. By becoming an organ donor, you have the power to make a significant impact on someone else's life and give them a second chance.

It raises awareness about organ donation

Organ Donor Day provides a platform to educate and inform individuals about the importance of being an organ donor. Many people may not realize how impactful their decision can be, so this day serves as a reminder to consider registering as an organ donor.

It honors those who have donated and received organs

Organ Donor Day is also a time to recognize and honor those who have given the gift of life through organ donation, as well as those who have received lifesaving transplants. It highlights the impact that one selfless act can have on someone's life.