The Donate Life Run/Walk, an event which aims to raise awareness about the life-saving importance of organ, eye and tissue donation, broke the record for the Largest gathering of organ transplant recipients.
In its 14th annual event, 314 people participated in the challenge that took place on the campus of California State University in California (USA).
Sara Castro, who celebrates the 25th anniversary of her heart transplant this year, was among the recipients gathered at Cal State Fullerton for the record attempt. She commented: “Without the generosity of an organ donor, I wouldn’t be here today”.
This record is the first of its kind and included recipients of either a heart, intestine, kidney, liver, lung or pancreas transplant. Many inspiring participants were recipients of multiple organ transplants.
The 5K/1K Run/Walk attracts more than 12,000 people. This year there were 100 teams representing local hospitals and dozens of other groups and supporters, making this event the largest of its kind in the country.
“My family and friends have the opportunity to get together and honor my donor and the second chance at life he gave me,” said organ recipient and returning participant John Whalen. “Not only that, but we get to be with other donors and donor families to honor and support them. It’s very important to me to do that … My inspiration comes from the fact that not everyone is lucky enough to receive an organ.”
The Donate Life Run/Walk is produced by OneLegacy, the non-profit organization dedicated to saving lives through organ, eye and tissue donation in seven Southern California counties.
All proceeds from the Donate Life Run/Walk benefit the OneLegacy Foundation, which conducts public education efforts to inspire people to choose donation and funds research to improve outcomes for donors, their families and recipients.
