By Eric Graham, registered organ donor and brother to a heart transplant recipient.
National Donor Day is special for me every year. It brings awareness to organ, eye, and tissue donation across the country. It’s also a reminder of the impact that one person can have on many lives by checking a box and having a conversation with loved ones.
I am the brother of a heart transplant recipient, Nate Miller, who would not be here today if not for the selfless actions of another person who decided to be an organ donor.
It’s been almost two years since I got that call. I was on a bike ride coming home from work at 5:05 p.m. on Friday, April 14, 2017. In a matter of five hours, I went from riding a bike home in Littleton, Colorado, to being in the transplant unit of St. Luke’s Transplant Center of Kansas City, Missouri.
April 15 will always be New Years, Christmas, a birthday celebration, and every holiday rolled into one because of the incredible gift we received. A gift that can never be repaid and one of the most amazing experiences I’ve ever been a part of. In a matter of hours, Nate went from hospital bed to having a new heart. Only hours after surgery, Nate was able to stand and take a step which was nothing short of miraculous.
Nate’s life has continued to improve every day since April 15, 2017. His new heart has given him the possibility of being able to ride a bike across Iowa, run a 5k, and have a new son and a daughter on the way. Just a few weeks ago, he was skiing in the mountains of Colorado; not one day is wasted as the story grows with new experiences.
Eric Graham, best friend and older brother of Nate Miller, organ recipient.
On this National Donor Day as a registered organ donor, and brother of a beneficiary, I ask that you consider being an organ, eye, and tissue donor.
It’s not just about signing up and forgetting about it. Remember to also talk to your family about your decision. This decision has the ability to save up to eight lives and heal 75 others. The lasting impact your decision has on families will live forever. I know firsthand, and there is simply nothing greater or more significant that someone can give than the gift of life. I know we will never meet the person who selflessly donated their organs, but, they will always be in my thoughts.
Being a donor means having a healthy body and a healthy mouth. Learn more about how your dental health influences your ability to donate and receive organs.
Helen Drexler, CEO and President of Delta Dental of Colorado, also shared the story of her son’s journey and how good oral health played a role in receiving a kidney transplant.
#StartTheConversation today and leave a lasting impact.
Eric Graham, best friend and older brother of Nate Miller, organ recipient.
