the importance of organ donation

lives in a positive way. In 2022 alone more than 40,000 successful transplants were performed in the United States. That being said, the waiting list for transplants is long and only grows day by day. Currently, 105,800 people are on the national transplant waiting list.

The numbers can be convincing, but let’s talk about some common misconceptions about organ donation. As I mentioned before, you have the ability to self-identify as an organ donor on your driver’s license. Despite this identification, the decision ultimately comes down to your loved ones when the time comes. It’s important to have a conversation with them about your wishes on the matter. A statistic from UFHealth. org states that 90% of adults support organ donation but only 58% are registered. So next time you have to go to the dreaded DMV, make sure your license displays your support and mention it to your loved ones as well.

Other misconceptions about organ donation sometimes turn people away from the idea. People sometimes assume they are unable to donate and would be considered ineligible for a variety of reasons. In reality, this generally is not the case. Identifying as an organ donor covers not only organs but tissue as well—which can be just as important to recipients. People also have a misconception that if you are registered to be a donor, hospital staff will not work as hard to save you in a life-threatening situation. The Mayo Clinic responds to this common myth by stating that hospital staff works to save your life, not the life of others, and that organ donor status will certainly not affect your care and treatment. Another note—no religion forbids organ donation.

April is designated as Organ Donation Awareness Month. Take some time this month to discuss your wishes with your family. My family is forever grateful for the gift of life given to us many years ago!

Tori Sarver is an intern for KC Parent. She is studying strategic communications with a business minor at CU Boulder.

As always, please consult your health care provider with any questions or concerns.

Coffee Creamer

I like a splash of flavored creamer in my morning cup of coffee. In an effort to try to reduce both seed oils and ingredients I can’t pronounce, I set out to find an alternative to my usual brand. I came across Chobani creamers and like so many things about them! Not only do they contain a very few ingredients, but also have great flavors that taste yummy. One thing I dislike is the pour spout. I drip all over the container every single time—but that flaw alone hasn’t stopped me from enjoying! Check out my current favorite flavor, raspberry white chocolate! Available at local retailers.

Roller Coaster

Fun fact: One of my first dates with my hubby was to Worlds of Fun. During our visit, he insisted I ride a roller coaster. I insisted that was a bad idea, as I don’t enjoy roller coasters. I rode the roller coaster. He vowed to never ride one with me again after that experience. Roller coasters aren’t my thing, but Kansas City thrill seekers have a treat in store. This year, Worlds of Fun is bringing back a fan favorite, the Zambezi Zinger. The new coaster is sure to delight fans and gives a nostalgic nod to its 1970s predecessor. WorldsOfFun.com

New Restaurant

Ever tried ramen at a restaurant? Probably the only ramen I’d ever had was in college in the form of rectangle noodles that I heated in the microwave. But I recently tried Jinya Ramen Bar that opened in Overland Park, and the food is delish—and way different from the ramen I’ve had in the past. Jinya is a chain with locations nationwide. The Overland Park location is the first in the area. If you’re looking for a fresh, quality meal with fresh ingredients, check out Jinya Ramen Bar!

JinyaRamenBar.com