National Donor Day

National Donor Day is observed annually on February 14, serving as a powerful reminder that the greatest gift one can give is the gift of life. While the date is traditionally associated with romantic love, this observance expands that sentiment to include the ultimate act of compassion: organ, eye, and tissue donation. The day focuses on raising awareness about the critical need for donors and encourages individuals to register their decisions while honoring those who have already saved lives through their selfless contributions.

History of National Donor Day

The holiday was established in 1998 by the Saturn Corporation and its partner, the United Auto Workers (UAW), with the support of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. The founders wanted to use the universal theme of Valentine’s Day to highlight five specific types of donation: organs, tissues, marrow, platelets, and blood. By creating a formalized day of awareness, they aimed to bridge the gap between the number of people waiting for transplants and the number of registered donors.

Historically, the day has evolved into a collaborative effort involving major health organizations like Donate Life America and the American Red Cross. It has become a significant day for “donor drives” across the United States, where volunteers set up registration tables in hospitals, universities, and community centers. The movement has been instrumental in normalizing the conversation around end-of-life wishes, helping families understand that a single donor can save up to eight lives and improve the lives of more than 75 others through tissue and eye donation.

Why is National Donor Day important?

This day is critical because, currently, more than 100,000 men, women, and children are on the national transplant waiting list. Every ten minutes, another person is added to that list, and unfortunately, an average of 17 people die each day while waiting for a life-saving organ. National Donor Day addresses this crisis by educating the public on the ease of registration and debunking common myths that prevent people from signing up, such as the fear that doctors won’t work as hard to save a registered donor’s life (which is factually incorrect).

The observance also emphasizes the importance of diverse donor pools. Certain blood types and tissue markers are more common within specific ethnic groups, making it vital for people of all backgrounds to register to ensure a better match for those in need. Furthermore, the day highlights the role of “living donors” who choose to give a kidney or a portion of their liver while still alive. By bringing these stories to the forefront, the holiday fosters a culture of generosity that can turn a tragedy into a legacy of hope for multiple families.

• One organ donor can save up to eight lives and enhance 75 others.
• More than 100,000 people are currently waiting for a life-saving transplant.
• Tissues like skin and bone are used for life-changing reconstructive surgeries.
• Marrow and blood donations are essential for treating cancer and blood disorders.
• The day honors the “donor heroes” whose final act was one of immense kindness.

How to Celebrate (or Observe) National Donor Day

The most impactful way to celebrate is to register as an organ, eye, and tissue donor through your state’s registry or via your local DMV. If you are already registered, use the day to have a conversation with your family about your decision; ensuring your loved ones know your wishes is a crucial step in the donation process. Many people also celebrate by donating blood or platelets at a local blood bank, which is a practical way to provide immediate help to patients in your community.

For those who have been touched by donation—either as a recipient or a donor family—the day is often marked by sharing personal stories on social media to inspire others. You can also participate in “Donate Life” events, such as 5K walks or candle-lighting ceremonies at hospitals to honor those who have given. Wearing green, the official color of organ donation awareness, or sharing a digital “I’m a Donor” badge helps keep the conversation going throughout the day. The goal is to make the act of giving life a celebrated and standard part of the human experience.

• Register your decision to be a donor at RegisterMe.org.
• Discuss your wishes with your family so they can honor your choice.
• Donate blood or platelets at a local drive to help patients in need.
• Join a marrow registry like “Be The Match” to potentially save a life.
• Share a story of a donor hero or a transplant recipient on social media.

National Donor Day Dates Table