Peoria County Encourages Organ and Tissue Donation

Gift of Hope partners with local officials to raise awareness during National Donate Life Month

Apr. 7, 2026 at 12:48am

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A translucent, ghostly X-ray image of human organs, including a heart and lungs, glowing against a dark background, conceptually representing the life-saving potential of organ donation.An organ donation campaign aims to dispel myths and inspire more people to register as donors, potentially saving countless lives.Peoria Today

Peoria County is recognizing National Donate Life Month and has issued a proclamation to highlight the importance of organ and tissue donation. The county is teaming up with the 'Gift of Hope' donor network to educate the public and dispel myths about donation. Speakers at the event included Zelena Winters, whose daughter joined the donor registry before her death two years ago.

Why it matters

Organ and tissue donation can save and improve lives, but many people are still hesitant to sign up as donors. This campaign aims to increase awareness and registration, which is crucial as the demand for donated organs and tissues continues to outpace supply.

The details

During the event at the Peoria County Coroner's office, officials emphasized that while 93% of American adults support organ donation, less than 60% are actually registered as donors. Coroner Jamie Harwood is partnering with Gift of Hope, a regional donor network, to educate the public and debunk common myths about donation. Zelena Winters shared her personal story of how her daughter's decision to become a donor has provided comfort and helped save other lives.

  • Peoria County issued the proclamation on Monday, April 7, 2026.
  • National Donate Life Month is recognized every April.

The players

Jamie Harwood

Peoria County Coroner who is leading the organ and tissue donation awareness campaign.

Gift of Hope

A donor network that serves more than three-quarters of northern Illinois and is partnering with Peoria County on this initiative.

Zelena Winters

A local resident whose daughter joined the organ donor registry before her death two years ago.

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What they’re saying

“There are so many myths and legends out there about organ donation. We just want to help families and give hope. That's what it's all about.”

— Jamie Harwood, Peoria County Coroner

“Words cannot express that a part of her is still alive and living in someone else, who, if she didn't make the decision to become an organ donor, might not be here now.”

— Zelena Winters

“Give someone else a chance to finish living their life out. You've lived your life. Be a blessing.”

— Zelena Winters

What’s next

Peoria County residents can register as organ and tissue donors through the Illinois Secretary of State's office.

The takeaway

This campaign highlights the critical need to increase organ and tissue donation registration, as the demand far outpaces the supply. By sharing personal stories and debunking myths, Peoria County and Gift of Hope aim to inspire more people to sign up and give the gift of life.