Whereas, While the number of organ donor transplants in Michigan rose to a record number last year, still more than 2,400 Michigan residents now wait for a lifesaving organ donation, and on average 12 Michigan residents die each month due to the serious lack of organ donors; and,

Whereas, Each year, thousands of Michigan citizens gain a new outlook on life as a result of the gift of sight made possible through eye donations; and,

Whereas, The need for organ, tissue, and eye donations grows daily, the severe donor shortage remains a serious public health crisis; and,

Whereas, Greater awareness and education about the need for organ, tissue and eye donation is essential if we are to increase the number of names on the Gift of Life Organ and Tissue Donor Registry and save more lives; and,

Whereas, It is important for people to discuss organ, tissue, and eye donation with their friends and families, enroll on the Gift of Life Organ and Tissue Donor Registry and sign the back of their driver’s license to ensure their organ donor wishes are known; and,

Whereas, Organ, tissue, and eye donation can provide families that are sadly confronted by the death of a loved one, the comfort of knowing the gift of donated organs and tissues endows another person with renewed hope for a healthy life; and,

Whereas, Giving the gift of life through organ, tissue, and eye donation to someone facing imminent death or living with blindness or a disability is the ultimate act of generosity and kindness we, as Michigan citizens, can perform; and now therefore be it,

Resolved, That I, Jennifer M. Granholm, Governor of the State of Michigan, do hereby proclaim April 2005, as Michigan Donate Life Month in Michigan and I urge all citizens to recognize the importance of organ, tissue, and eye donation, enroll on the organ donor registry and discuss organ donation with their friends and families.