Assemblyman David G. McDonough (R,C,I-Merrick) is reminding constituents that April is National Donate Life Month, during which local, state and national organizations will be raising public awareness of the critical need for organ, tissue, marrow and blood donations.

“Your decision to be an organ and tissue donor can have an enormous impact on the lives of recipients because a donor can save or enhance the lives of up to 50 people,” said McDonough. “One of the most important decisions you can make in honor of National Donate Life Month is to become a donor.

According to national statistics, noted McDonough, more than 87,000 patients await life-saving transplants, and another name is added to the waiting list every 14 minutes. An average of 17 people each day die because of the lack of transplantable organs.

The need for life-giving donations includes blood and bone marrow. Donated blood is needed every three seconds to sustain patient lives - whether they be accident victims, surgical patients or people receiving treatment for leukemia, cancer or another disease.

“The most important step to being an organ donor is to tell your family of your wishes,” said McDonough. “Knowing the wishes of your family members allows you to make an informed decision should the option of donation arise.”

More information about National Donate Life Month and organ/tissue donation is available by contacting the following organizations.