SC New York News

Assemblyman Phil Palmesano, joined by local county clerks, held a press conference to mark the end of Donate Life Month and to urge more New Yorkers to become organ donors. Palmesano emphasized the importance of this cause in New York, stating, “New York’s organ donor enrollment statistics are sobering and unacceptable. We can, and we must do better.”

Palmesano shared a personal connection to the issue, revealing that his sister Teresa was a two-time kidney transplant recipient, with Palmesano donating a kidney to her in 2006. He expressed gratitude towards the NYS Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) and county clerks for their efforts in increasing organ donation rates, saying, “Your commitment to helping save lives, not only during Donate Life Month but throughout the year, does not go unnoticed. Thank you so very much.”

DMV Commissioner Mark J. F. Schroeder commended the ongoing efforts to raise awareness about organ donation, noting that over 80 percent of registry enrollments occur through DMV-related transactions. Schroeder praised Palmesano and his legislative colleagues, along with county clerk partners, for their dedication to promoting organ donation.

Various county clerks also voiced their support for the cause. Steuben County Clerk Judy Hunter stressed the year-round necessity of organ donation awareness, emphasizing that a simple action can save a life. Chemung County Clerk Linda Forrest highlighted the community's involvement in promoting organ donation and expressed pride in contributing to raising awareness.

Yates County Clerk Molly Linehan emphasized the continuous need for education on organ donation beyond just the designated month, underscoring the transformative impact it can have on individuals' lives. Similarly, Schuyler County Clerk Theresa Philbin urged for sustained attention to the Donate Life movement throughout the year, aiming to improve New York's ranking in organ donor registries.

Seneca County Clerk Christina Lotz shared a poignant message encouraging individuals to consider organ donation, stating, “One last good deed – let your body help those in need.”

In conclusion, Palmesano reiterated the importance of registering as an organ donor, urging those who have not yet done so to have a conversation with their families about this crucial decision. He appealed to people's empathy by asking them to consider the possibility of their loved ones needing a life-saving transplant and the impact of low organ donation rates. Palmesano expressed confidence that through collective efforts, more lives can be saved.

To register as an organ donor, individuals can visit their local DMV office or register online at https://donatelife.ny.gov/register/.