PHILADELPHIA (CBS) — April is recognized as National Donate Life Month. It’s a time dedicated to increasing awareness about the critical need for organ donations.
On Tuesday evening, families of children who died and whose organs were donated, along with members of the St. Christopher’s Hospital for Children’s Pediatric Intensive Care Unit and Transplant Team, gathered for a candlelight “Honor Walk” around the hospital’s patient drop-off circle.
The solemn ceremonial walk symbolizes the moment a donor is taken to the operating room and expresses gratitude to donor families who gave the ultimate gift of life by choosing organ donation.
“It’s not easy but really fulfilling in the end,” said Diana Colonna, who is the director of nursing for the PICU at St. Christopher’s.
Families also planted a garden of solar-powered, illuminated butterflies. Each is a tribute to the children whose donated organs have saved lives.