In a poignant recognition of their tireless efforts to promote organ donation, Bill and Leslie Carruth have been awarded the prestigious 2024 Lisa Schaffner Community Advocate Award by the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS). This accolade comes as a testament to their remarkable work in raising awareness about organ donation and generating substantial funds for community programs.
The Carruths’ journey into advocacy began with a personal tragedy. In 2017, they lost their daughter, Alexandra (Allie), and made the courageous decision to donate her organs. This profound experience became the catalyst for their mission to spread awareness and hope in their community. Less than a year after their loss, they established the Allie Cat Run & Festival in Meridian, Mississippi, an event that has since become an annual fixture in the community’s calendar.
The impact of the Carruths’ initiative has been significant. Over the years, the Allie Cat Run & Festival has raised more than $500,000 for community programs. More importantly, it has contributed to a 7% growth in the local donor registry, a statistic that translates to potential life-saving opportunities for those in need of organ transplants.
UNOS CEO Maureen McBride, Ph.D., praised the Carruths’ efforts, stating, ‘The Carruth’s embody exactly what Lisa stood for and fought so hard for. Organ donation saves so many lives and efforts to increase education and awareness are so appreciated.’ McBride added, ‘I’m grateful for the Carruth’s, who have courageously turned the unimaginable into something deeply meaningful. Through their work, Allie’s memory lives strong and is helping save more lives.’
The Lisa Schaffner Community Advocate Award, formerly known as the National Donor Memorial Award for Excellence, was renamed in 2021 to honor Lisa Schaffner, a former UNOS employee and passionate advocate for organ donation and transplantation. The award recognizes individuals who demonstrate exceptional commitment to promoting organ donation.
The Carruths received their award during the 2024 Tree of Life ceremony on December 16. This annual event serves as a tribute to the lives and gifts of over 20,000 organ donors, as well as countless cornea and tissue donors and their families. It also celebrates the lives of organ recipients across the nation, underscoring the far-reaching impact of organ donation.
The story of the Carruths and their daughter Allie serves as a powerful reminder of the transformative potential of organ donation. Their work not only honors Allie’s memory but also provides hope and support to families facing similar circumstances. By turning their personal tragedy into a force for positive change, the Carruths have created a lasting legacy that continues to save lives and inspire others.
This recognition by UNOS highlights the crucial role that community advocates play in the organ donation process. As the need for organ donors continues to outpace supply, the efforts of individuals like the Carruths become increasingly vital. Their work not only raises awareness but also helps to dispel myths and misconceptions about organ donation, potentially encouraging more individuals to consider becoming donors.
The impact of the Carruths’ work extends beyond their local community. By sharing their story and continuing their advocacy efforts, they contribute to a broader national conversation about the importance of organ donation. Their experience demonstrates how personal tragedy can be channeled into a powerful force for societal good, inspiring others to take action and potentially save lives.
Readers interested in learning more about the Carruths and their daughter Allie can click here. Additionally, the Tree of Life ceremony, including the Carruths’ acceptance speech, can be viewed here.
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