The Michigan Department of State announced on April 1 that it is recognizing April as Donate Life Month, aiming to honor organ, eye, and tissue donors while encouraging more residents to join the Michigan Organ Donor Registry.
Donate Life Month highlights the importance of organ donation and the ongoing need for registered donors. The department said thousands of patients in Michigan and across the country are waiting for life-saving transplants.
“Thousands of patients in Michigan and nationwide are waiting for their second chance at life,” said Deputy Secretary of State Aghogho Edevbie. “One simple decision can make an extraordinary difference to not only the recipient, but their family, friends, and loved ones. Our department celebrates the heroic and remarkable life-saving commitment that each organ, eye, and tissue donor makes. You can quickly and easily join the Michigan Organ Donor Registry online, at a Secretary of State branch office, or at one of our self-service stations in communities across the state.”
Dorrie Dils, president and CEO of Gift of Life Michigan, also commented on collaborative efforts: “We are grateful for our partnership with the Secretary of State and their continued commitment to making donor registration accessible to all Michiganders. That leadership is helping grow the Donor Registry and bringing hope to the more than 2,700 people waiting for a lifesaving transplant.”
The registry is a confidential database where individuals can record their decision to become an organ donor. Residents may sign up online at Michigan.gov/OrganDonation or visit any Secretary of State branch office or self-service station statewide—a network supported by operations described on the official website. The department provides various services including driver licensing and vehicle registration through its statewide branches according to its website.
In 2025 alone, over 214,000 new names were added to the registry. One organ donor has potential to save up to eight lives; one tissue donor could help as many as 75 people. However, Gift of Life Michigan reports that every day 13 people die awaiting transplants. In total last year in Michigan there were 478 organ donors who enabled more than 1,200 organs transplanted.
Gift of Life Michigan serves as the state’s federally designated recovery program for organs and tissues. Anyone regardless of age or health status may register after discussing with family members if desired.
For further details about registering or about donation services provided by Gift of Life Michigan visit the official website.
