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CS359
Honoring Those Who Gave the Gift of Life
By: C. Reed, S. Gerhardt, L. Kirkman, K. Shaver & J. Sainz; University Hospital; SA, TX. & Texas Organ Sharing Alliance; SA, TX
For further information, please contact: Charles.Reed@uhs-sa.com or jsainz@txorgansharing.org
Purpose: One type of hero not often recognized is the family who makes the difficult decision to donate a loved one’s organs, while the loss is so new and the grief so strong. A collaborative initiative was undertaken to honor patients who become organ donors and recognize their families – the heroes.
Description: ICU nurses very often develop close relationships with patients and families. So, when a patient dies and becomes an organ donor it can be emotionally difficult for the nurse. After two young boys lost a brother and a father in a single day, the ICU nurses involved in their care realized that honoring families who made the difficult decision to donate life might help provide closure for families and nurses. A large tree mural was designed for a busy hospital hallway. To maintain confidentiality a brief invitational letter was sent to donor families asking their permission to place their loved one’s name on this Tree of Life, and inviting them to come to a special ceremony. During the ceremony each family in attendance placed a brass leaf engraved with their loved one’s name on the mural. Many, who could not attend, responded to the letter with grateful words and gave their permission to have their loved one’s name placed on the tree. Symbolic balloons lined the hallway; 28 white balloons represented the organ donors, and 104 green balloons stood for the number of people who benefited from their gifts. At a reception following the celebration, donor families received a Texas Mountain Laurel to plant in memory of their loved one.
Evaluation and Outcomes: The Tree of Life is a visual reminder of the real people behind the gift of life at our hospital. The celebration gives families the opportunity to honor their loved ones by sharing their memories. More than 31 families were present and the event was well attended by hospital staff. Several family members have since returned to see “their” leaf. The celebration has now become an annual event to be held during National Donate Life Month.
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