Nicholas Van Deelen, MD SVP – President, Minnesota Region | Aspirus Langlade Hospital
Nicholas Van Deelen, MD SVP – President, Minnesota Region | Aspirus Langlade Hospital
Aspirus Wisconsin Rapids Hospital facilitated a rare organ donation case earlier this year, providing a transformative opportunity for multiple recipients in the Midwest. A donor, coordinated by the hospital's intensive care unit and emergency department, was able to help four individuals by donating both kidneys, both lungs, and a liver.
Kim Johnson, Vice President of Patient Care and Chief Nursing Officer, Wisconsin Southwest Division, Aspirus Health, commented on the infrequent nature of these events, stating, “We have so few organ donor cases at Aspirus Wisconsin Rapids, which makes these events incredibly rare and meaningful.” The hospital collaborates with Organ Procurement Organizations (OPO) to honor donor families' wishes and provide essential gifts to those awaiting transplants.
The process of organ donation at Aspirus involves a careful and empathetic approach. The commitment of nurses, physicians, and support staff to assist donor families and manage the transplantation process is significant. The hospital works closely with OPOs to ensure the procedure fulfills the donor's and family's intentions.
Johnson highlighted the critical need for organ donors in Wisconsin, noting, “More than 1,400 people in Wisconsin are waiting for a life-saving organ transplant.” She explained the potentially life-saving impact of one registration, where a donor could save up to eight lives and aid many through cornea and tissue donation.
Morgan Rose, a Registered Nurse at Aspirus Wisconsin Rapids Hospital, shared the profound impact of organ donation, stating, “Organ donation saves lives.” Rose emphasized the continuity of life that donations provide, adding value to the efforts of healthcare teams.
Aspirus, like other hospitals, also marks National Donate Life Month in April, encouraging individuals to register as organ donors. The participation in events such as the Donate Life Flag raise underscores the importance of such actions in positively affecting lives.
To learn more about organ donation or to offer support, Aspirus Health recommends visiting relevant resources for potential donors.
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