The American Society of Transplant Surgeons has launched a nationwide campaign to increase organ donation by asking America's national leaders, influential citizens, and their families to pledge their organs for donation.
The First Family Pledge Campaign was announced recently at the 24th annual scientific meeting of ASTS. United Resource Networks, an affiliate of United HealthCare Corporation of Minneapolis, became the first organization to support the campaign.
"We look forward to bringing this important program to our employees as well as the more than 34 million people United Resource Networks touches through its national transplantation network," said David J. McLean, chief executive officer of United Resource Networks.
According to ASTS, the program was created to encourage American families to openly discuss organ donation with their relatives and to make a commitment to donate organs in the event of an untimely death.
"Families who take the First Family Pledge can rest assured that no matter what happens, their wishes will be honored and celebrated in dignity," said Joshua Miller, MD, PhD, of ASTS.
"We are confident our national leaders and their families can be the catalyst for change so that every American who can benefit receives a chance to live," added Ronald Ferguson, MD, of ASTS.
To obtain a copy of the ASTS First Family Pledge, call the toll-free number, (877) 2-GIVE LIFE.
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