Niagara County Clerk Joseph A. Jastrzemski, together with Mark Schroeder, the state commissioner of the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), celebrated April as “Donate Life Month” on Thursday. The press event took place at the North Tonawanda DMV and aimed to honor those who have saved lives through organ, eye, and tissue donations. The campaign also aimed to encourage more people to register as donors.
During the event, Tim Synor and Paulette Welker, local residents who received heart transplants over a decade ago, were recognized for their journeys and expressed gratitude to their donors. Jastrzemki emphasized the importance of organ donation, stating that there are over 10,000 people in New York waiting for organ transplants. He highlighted that one donor can save eight lives and improve the lives of 75 others.
Commissioner Schroeder praised the efforts of the Niagara County DMV staff in raising awareness and recognized Niagara County residents for their high level of participation. He mentioned that 85% of donors in New York register through the DMV. Notably, Niagara County boasts an impressive 66% enrollment rate, rivaling that of Colorado, the leading state in donor enrollment.
Jastrzemski informed residents that they can sign up as organ donors by visiting donatelife.ny.gov or any of the county’s DMV offices in Lockport, Niagara Falls, and North Tonawanda. He also mentioned that these offices are decorated to promote “Donate Life Month.”
