Tim Joos, whose daughter Samantha became a tissue donor in 2003, recently shared the moving story of Sam’s death and the decision he and his wife Deb made to donate her tissue. He shared the story as a guest on ESPN’s Sports Medicine Weekly, a Chicago radio show hosted by orthopedic surgeon Brian Cole, MD, of Midwest Orthopedics at Rush University Medical Center. Take a listen, and you'll be inspired by Dr. Cole's introduction, Tim's moving story and the significant impact that Sam had on people's lives.

The new Connections offers a visual recap of our “Donation Is …” social media campaign conducted during National Donate Life Month. Elsewhere, Donation Specialist Terri Peplow shares the story of organ donor John Miller and the impact his case had on her. You’ll also learn about the 53 Team Illinois athletes who participated in the 2016 Transplant Games of America in June and read the exciting news that more than 6 million Illinoisans are now registered donors. Download the PDF or browse through the online version Connections.

The DuPage County Board of Commissioners recently recognized the importance of donation and honored a young donor and her family for their decision to turn tragedy into triumph. DuPage County Board Chairman Daniel Cronin read a proclamation observing National Donate Life Month, and Joseph Leone (second right), Deputy Chief of Operations for the Addison Fire Department, shared the story of his daughter, Lauren, and the impact her sudden death and ultimate donation had on five people whose lives she saved as an organ donor.