Alameda Residents Encouraged to Become Organ and Tissue Donors

National Donate Life Month highlights the impact of donation and the need for more registered donors in the community.

Apr. 13, 2026 at 2:43pm

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A minimalist design in the style of Keith Haring where the outline of a human heart is defined entirely by vibrant neon lines against a deep, dark background, emphasizing the shape and energy of the organ.The gift of organ and tissue donation can create a pathway from loss to healing in a community.Alameda Today

Alameda Health System is using National Donate Life Month in April to raise awareness about organ and tissue donation and encourage more residents to register as donors. The hospital system highlights the emotional 'Honor Walk' ceremony for donor patients and the ongoing need for donors, with over 20,000 Californians waiting for transplants despite high public support for donation.

Why it matters

Organ and tissue donation can save and improve lives, but the need remains urgent with thousands of Californians waiting for transplants. Raising awareness and registration during National Donate Life Month can help connect more donors with recipients and continue Alameda Health System's mission of caring for the whole community.

The details

Alameda Health System (AHS) holds 'Honor Walks' for donor patients, where caregivers line the hospital corridors to quietly support the patient and family as the donor is moved to surgery. This emotional ceremony reflects the profound loss and generosity of donation. AHS is partnering with Donor Network West to host an information table at Alameda Hospital on April 17, where residents can learn more about becoming a donor and register on-site. While 95% of Americans support donation, only 58% are registered, leaving thousands waiting for transplants.

  • National Donate Life Month is celebrated each April.
  • Donor Network West will host an information table at Alameda Hospital on April 17, 2026 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

The players

Vernne Victa

An intensive care (ICU) clinical nurse II at Alameda Health System who helps facilitate Honor Walks for donor patients.

Lisa Laurent, MD, MBA, MSc, CPE, FAAPL, FIOM

The Chief Medical Officer at Alameda Health System, who states that organ and tissue donation is an extension of the system's mission to care for the whole community.

Donor Network West

The organ procurement organization that will host an information table at Alameda Hospital to help residents register as organ and tissue donors.

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What they’re saying

“It is one of the hardest and most meaningful parts of our work. During an Honor Walk, families are facing unimaginable loss, and at the same time, they are choosing to give life to others. Helping them navigate those emotions takes compassion, patience, and deep respect.”

— Vernne Victa, intensive care (ICU) clinical nurse II at Alameda Health System

“At Alameda Health System, organ and tissue donation is an extension of our mission to care for the whole community. In the most difficult moments, it creates a pathway from loss to healing by connecting patients, families, and caregivers in a shared commitment to saving lives.”

— Lisa Laurent, MD, MBA, MSc, CPE, FAAPL, FIOM, Chief Medical Officer at Alameda Health System

What’s next

Residents can register as organ and tissue donors online through Donor Network West or in person at the information table at Alameda Hospital on April 17, 2026.

The takeaway

Increasing organ and tissue donor registration in Alameda can help save lives and is an important part of Alameda Health System's mission to care for the whole community, especially during the most difficult moments.