How to #ShowYourHeart And Support Organ, Eye and Tissue Donation

Signing up to be an organ, eye and tissue donor only takes a few moments, but it's the ultimate act of kindness.

"Just one donor can save up to eight lives through organ donation and save and heal more than 75 lives through eye and tissue donation," according to Donor Alliance. "In Colorado and Wyoming alone, nearly 2,000 people are on the waiting list for a lifesaving organ transplant."

As an organ, eye and tissue donor, your family will be treated with the utmost respect and care when it's time to make the donation — it won't delay funeral arrangements or prevent an open casket funeral. It also won't affect your medical care, as your doctors and nurses won't be involved with the donation process.

Imagine the impact your donation could have on the lives of others, though. Donor Alliance shares the story of Juniper, who faced total heart failure when she was just a few weeks old. She spent five months attached to a surgical machine that pumped blood through her body until a donor heart could be found — and now, she's a strong-minded, feisty child.

“The gratitude felt is almost indescribable,” Juniper's mom told Donor Alliance. “I would want them to know that we plan on honoring their gift by taking amazing care of Juniper’s heart and by giving her a wonderful life. We almost see it like she is living for the both of them because she wouldn’t be here without their child.”

This month, Donor Alliance is spreading awareness by encouraging supporters to #ShowYourHeart on social media with a special customization tool.

• UPLOAD your photo & share why you signed up as an organ, eye and tissue donor
• CUSTOMIZE your photo with a heart
• SHARE with your friends on social media for a chance to win a Donate Life mystery box!

The goal is to reach 2,000 photo submissions to represent those waiting for the gift of life throughout Colorado and Wyoming.

You also can show your support by downloading and sharing online resources and participating in Blue and Green Day on April 16. Simply wear your best blue and green outfit that day, snap a photo and upload it here. However you choose to participate, you can do so knowing you're helping save lives!