Mega Doctor News
Organ transplantation has long been recognized as one of modern medicine’s most remarkable achievements, offering hope and life-saving interventions for individuals whose vital organs can no longer function properly.
“Organ donation has the power to completely transform the lives of patients battling severe or life-limiting health conditions,” says Krystal McCloud, MSN, RN, CCRN, Director of Nursing, Critical Care, South Texas Health System (STHS) McAllen. “For those living in poor health, a donated organ can mean the difference between continued suffering and the chance to regain stability, strength and hope. It’s a gift that not only restores health but restores futures.”
Today, more than 103,000 men, women and children are waiting for a lifesaving organ transplant, according to the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS). Every eight minutes, another name is added to that list.
A single organ donor has the potential to save up to eight lives and enhance the lives of 75 more, according to the Health Resources and Services Administration, making organ donation a truly lifegiving and lifechanging gift.
Unfortunately, organ donor registration rates remain significantly lower than the demand, even with strong public support. While approximately 95% of Americans support organ, eye and tissue donation, only about 58% are registered donors, according to UNOS.
“Far too many people are still unaware of how simple and impactful it can be to register as a donor,” says McCloud. “Increasing awareness is essential to closing the gap between the number of people who need a lifesaving transplant and the number of available donors. By educating our community, we can hopefully inspire more individuals to take that crucial step and help save lives.”
To raise awareness about the importance of organ, eye and tissue donation, South Texas Health System will host a series of events at its facilities throughout National Donate Life Month in April.
The initiative will officially kick off with a special candlelight vigil on Wednesday, April 1, from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. in the main parking lot of STHS McAllen. Held in partnership with the Texas Organ Sharing Alliance, Texas Donor Network, San Antonio Eye Bank and South Texas Blood & Tissue, the event will feature remarks from a donor family member, as well as STHS and the City of McAllen leaders.
“Using light to represent hope and life amidst darkness, the event will celebrate the noble individuals who have given life to others through organ, eye and tissue donation, ensuring their legacy of selflessness lives on,” says Tom Castañeda, System Director of Marketing & Public Relations, STHS. “Beyond honoring donor legacies, STHS’ candlelight vigil will highlight the life-saving impact of organ donation by making the abstract concept of donation profoundly personal.”
Along with bringing the community together to hold candles in honor of those who have given the gift of life, show support for organ donation and strengthen unity around the cause, the event will also include the raising of the official Donate Life flag on the STHS McAllen grounds. The flag serves as a powerful symbol of unity, remembrance, hope and support, helping to raise awareness while honoring those whose lives have been touched by donation and transplantation.
The event is open to the public, and attendees are encouraged to wear blue and green to help spread the Donate Life message and promote the importance of registering as an eye, organ and tissue donor.
For more information about the event, visit the STHS Facebook Events page or contact the STHS Marketing Department at 956-388-2020 or via email at STHSMarketing@uhsinc.com.
To learn more about becoming an organ donor or to register, visit donatelifetexas.org.
| Who: | South Texas Health System |
| What: | Donate Life Candlelight Vigil |
| When: | Wednesday, April 1, 2026, 6:30 – 7:30 p.m. |
| Where: | STHS McAllen Main Parking Lot 301 W. Expressway 83 McAllen, TX 78503 |
