CHRISTUS Health highlights the importance of organ donation

Organ donation can save up to 8 lives, and one donor can enhance the lives of more than 75 others through tissue and cornea donation.

Apr. 3, 2026 at 9:35pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A translucent X-ray photograph showing the intricate structure of a human heart and lungs, conceptually representing the critical importance of organ donation.A powerful X-ray image reveals the delicate inner workings of the human body, a visual metaphor for the lifesaving potential of organ donation.Beaumont Today

CHRISTUS Health is recognizing April as National Donate Life Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about the lifesaving impact of organ, eye and tissue donation. The health system is hosting a Donate Life ceremony to share personal stories and encourage individuals to register as donors.

Why it matters

With over 100,000 people waiting for an organ transplant in the U.S., organ donation can make a significant difference in saving and enhancing lives. CHRISTUS Health aims to educate the community on the power of organ donation and inspire more people to become registered donors.

The details

CHRISTUS Health is hosting their annual Donate Life ceremony on April 8th at 11:30 a.m. at the CHRISTUS Outpatient Pavilion. The event will feature personal stories, like that of April Bertrand, a registered nurse whose 16-year-old daughter Lexy's organs were donated after a fatal car crash, saving three lives. CHRISTUS encourages the community to attend the ceremony and learn how to register as an organ donor.

  • April is recognized as National Donate Life Month.
  • The CHRISTUS Donate Life ceremony will be held on April 8, 2026.

The players

Kathy Rodgers

Director of trauma for CHRISTUS Southeast Texas Health System.

April Bertrand

A registered nurse at CHRISTUS Southeast Texas - St. Elizabeth, who lost her 16-year-old daughter Lexy in a car crash and honored her wish to be an organ donor.

Lexy Bertrand

April Bertrand's 16-year-old daughter who died in a car crash and donated her organs, saving three lives.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Organ donation is one of the most powerful ways someone can leave a lasting impact. By registering as a donor and sharing that decision with your loved ones, you have the opportunity to save and heal lives.”

— Kathy Rodgers, Director of trauma for CHRISTUS Southeast Texas Health System

“I vividly remember the conversation we had just months before. Lexy expressed her wish to save lives through organ donation when she got her license. I didn't know at the time that conversation would later become the foundation of her legacy.”

— April Bertrand, Registered nurse at CHRISTUS Southeast Texas - St. Elizabeth

“I'm in awe of how our bodies can give life to someone else. My mission is to raise awareness about the power of organ donation and encourage families to have the conversation, register and become a hero like Lexy.”

— April Bertrand, Registered nurse at CHRISTUS Southeast Texas - St. Elizabeth

What’s next

The CHRISTUS Donate Life ceremony on April 8th will provide the community with more information on how to register as an organ donor.

The takeaway

Organ donation has the power to save and enhance lives, and CHRISTUS Health is committed to educating the community on the importance of registering as donors and having open conversations with loved ones about their wishes.