Valley Health Honors the Selfless Act of Organ and Tissue Donors with a Heartfelt Ceremony

Valley Health held a moving Remembrance Service on Friday honoring the selfless donors and their families who have given the extraordinary gift of life to others.

The service, attended by families, staff, and community members, was a touching tribute to the generosity and compassion of organ and tissue donors. A donor, recipient’s parent Sarah Ludwig, shared the touching story of her son’s journey to receive a heart. The program included heartfelt speeches, music and moments of reflection, creating an atmosphere of gratitude and remembrance.

In a ceremony following the program, 128 donor’s names were read aloud, acknowledging their invaluable contribution. Families were then invited to hang a special ornament on a commemorative tree, symbolizing the enduring impact of their loved ones’ gifts. The tree will be located outside of the Chaplain’s office, right next to the south tower information desk. This year at Winchester Medical Center there have been 7 new donors added to the tree of life sculpture in the south tower.

“Your loved one does not go forgotten. Someone somewhere is thankful for your loved one and the decision that was made,” Jamie Smith, Lifenet Health, Organ Recovery.

Valley Health remains committed to raising awareness about the importance of organ and tissue donation and supporting the families of donors. This Remembrance Service is a testament to the profound difference that donors make in the lives of recipients and the community.