SPRINGFIELD – Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias today launched a new statewide public awareness campaign encouraging Illinoisans to become organ and tissue donors and pass along something meaningful: the gift of life.
The new campaign begins airing today on broadcast and cable television, radio, digital and social media platforms across Illinois to increase awareness and encourage more residents to join the state’s Organ/Tissue Donor Registry.
“We pass down all kinds of things – an old suit, a family recipe or an antique lamp – but nothing can compare to giving someone the chance to live,” said Giannoulias, noting more than 4,000 Illinoisans are awaiting transplants. “Becoming an organ donor is a simple decision with an extraordinary impact. It can save a life, change a family forever and create a legacy that lives on through others.”
The campaign uses humor to highlight the sometimes questionable gifts and family traditions that are passed down through generations, including an outdated prom suit, an antique lamp and a treasured family recipe. The ads ultimately deliver a powerful message: the most priceless legacy is organ donation – the chance to give someone else the gift of life.
Illinois has one of the largest organ and tissue donor registries in the nation with more than 7 million total current registrants, averaging over 20,000 sign-ups per month across DMV facilities. A single donor can save or improve the lives of up to 25 people.
More than 4,000 Illinoisans are currently waiting for a lifesaving transplant, and approximately 300 people die each year while waiting for a transplant.
The Secretary of State’s office maintains Illinois’ Organ/Tissue Donor Registry, known as Life Goes On. Illinoisans can register as an organ and tissue donor when obtaining or renewing their driver’s license or state ID at an Illinois Secretary of State facility. They can also register online at LifeGoesOn.com or by calling (800) 210-2106.
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