Middle: Earl Lovell, Veteran and Heart Transplant Recipient. Photo courtesy of Sierra Donor Services

WEST SACRAMENTO, CA (MPG) – Sierra Donor Services (SDS) proudly joins the nation honoring the courageous men and women who served in the United States Armed Forces, our Military Veterans and Donor Heroes - including the many Veterans whose lives were saved and improved through the gift of organ, eye and tissue donation.

Nearly 20,000 Californians and 100,000 patients across the nation are waiting for a transplant - many of whom are Veterans and active-duty Military service members. Tissue grafts, for example, are commonly used to help them recover from injuries. These include skin, bone and vascular grafts. One registered donor can save up to eight lives through organ donation and heal the lives of 75 more through tissue donation.

Service members commit their lives to protecting and serving our nation. For many, giving back is part of their dedication.

“My heart transplant gave me more than just time; it gave me a second chance at life. I now get to experience all the milestones that I otherwise wouldn’t have been able to do and be a part of - all because someone made the selfless decision to say ‘yes’ to donation,” Earl Lovell, veteran and heart transplant recipient said. “The things that have happened since then are all blessings, the people that I have met, the specialists that I have seen. My whole life has changed 180 degrees.”

Lovell’s story is one of gratitude and the impact of one selfless decision. But it also reflects a much larger reality, one that affects thousands of individuals and families every day.

Sierra Donor Services encourages everyone to honor our nation's heroes this Veterans Day by having conversations with family and friends about their wishes and registering as a donor. As Sierra Donor Services reflects on over 40 years of impact, the organization remains committed to its mission of saving lives, honoring donors, and educating the public. Be a part of this life-changing legacy. Register today at SierraDonor.org.