National Donor Sabbath is observed annually two weekends before Thanksgiving, from Friday through Sunday. This three-day observance seeks to include the days of worship for major religions practiced in the United States. During National Donor Sabbath, faith leaders from many religions, donor families, transplant recipients, and donation and transplantation professionals participate in services and programs to educate the public about the need for the lifesaving and healing gifts passed to others through transplantation, while also encouraging people to register their decision to be an organ, eye and tissue donors.
African-Americans are the largest minority group in need of an organ transplant, accounting for 30 percent of those awaiting the life-saving procedure, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Higher rates of high blood pressure and diabetes in the African-American population can also increase chances of organ failure and the need for a transplant. Linkages to Life, The Links, Incorporated’s organ, tissue and bone marrow awareness signature program, highlights the need for African-American donors and stresses lifestyle changes that can help prevent organ failure.
On Sunday, November 12, 2017, the Health and Human Services Facets of the New Orleans, Pontchartrain, and Crescent City (LA) Chapters of the Links, Incorporated hosted a Donor Sabbath event at St. Gabriel The Archangels Church. Congratulations to all members for hosting another successful Donor Sabbath Sunday!
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