Decatur, GA -- Greater St. Stephens Full Gospel Baptist Church in Decatur and LifeLink of Georgia, the state’s non-profit organ recovery organization, recently showcased a Gift of Life Gospel Concert featuring Bishop Paul S. Morton. The event was one of several health-oriented initiatives facilitated with Bishop Morton at the church.
Illnesses such as high blood pressure, diabetes, kidney disease and heart disease disproportionately affect the African American community and can lead to organ failure. More than 2,500 Georgians are waiting for a life-saving organ transplant. Currently, 53 percent on the transplant waiting list in Georgia are minorities and close to 65 percent of those waiting for a kidney transplant in Georgia are African American. LifeLink was invited to share the “Donate Life” message through testimonials and music.
“We have learned that many are aware of organ donation but they do not know how to designate their donation decision. One of our goals through the Multicultural Donation Education Program is to help people understand the steps necessary to become an organ and tissue donor,” said Bobby Howard, manager and kidney transplant recipient.
Howard encouraged the congregation to complete a family notification card. Approximately 50 members took immediate action.
The Multicultural Donation Education Program (MDEP) encourages all Georgians to take action and sign-up to become an organ and tissue donor. LifeLink’s staff and volunteers are available to meet with groups and organizations to educate the community about organ and tissue donation. All presentations are free and tailored to the specific needs of the audience. MDEP also participates in multicultural focused health fairs and health-related events.
To learn more about organ and tissue donation or to invite LifeLink to your next organizational meeting, contact Terri Medina at 770-225-5465.
Posted By: Minister Celeste Kelley
Monday, October 13th 2008 at 1:08PM
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