Tuesday’s Tale: Why I’m Inspired to Shine On

Veronica Wende: Lifeline of Ohio Ambassador

“This little light of mine, I’m gonna let it shine, let it shine, let it shine, let it shine.”  This song reminds me how important it is to let your light “Shine On” by becoming a registered organ and tissue donor. Through my own experiences, I know that organ and tissue donation is a very important topic to be discussed for Americans of all ages.  I find it amazing how one donor can help so many.

I use donation as my platform so that I may inspire others to register!

The reason I am inspired to help with tissue and organ donation is that in the last few years I have known three young people whose lives were cut short and now they are shining on as donors. While this was not an easy period of my life to endure, losing friends of mine inspired me to do what I could, as a teenager, to try and make a difference. I hope that during a difficult time the families found comfort in the fact that their loved ones gave the ultimate gift in order to help a complete stranger.

Through my teenage years I have had the opportunity to compete in various pageants around Ohio. Whenever there is a speech competition within these pageants, I never hesitate when deciding what my topic is going to be. When I talk about organ and tissue donation, I know I am making a difference. Even if only one person walks away with a question or a thought, I know I have planted that seed. It is that seed that makes all the difference.

I was inspired at the 2010 Candlelight Vigil!

In addition to speaking on behalf of donation in pageants, I am also an Ambassador of Lifeline of Ohio. I have found that the more I get involved, the more I want to help spread the word about this important topic.  I have had the opportunity to meet so many new people who are so grateful for their second chance and I am constantly inspired by their enthusiasm for life. To hear someone tell their story, one can’t help but to get the chills. You can see the gratefulness in their eyes, actions and you can hear it in their words. I feel that if anyone was hesitant on the decision to become registered, just listen to one recipient tell their story. Or, see how one donor family finds peace in a tragic situation by knowing that their loved one is living on in the most selfless way possible.    

Preparing for my "Shine On" speech at my last pageant.

My experiences with Lifeline of Ohio have been memorable to say the least. I have been able to travel all around central Ohio and participate in a multitude of events. From the Candlelight Vigil to the Dash for Donation, parades and health fairs, every opportunity is unique and it is always a good time! I have been able to create memories that I will be able to take with me for years to come. I look forward to many future opportunities as well!

God gave us free will, which is the ability to make our own choices; and sometimes those choices aren’t always easy to make, especially as a teenager.  Although, when it comes to choosing to become a registered tissue and organ donor, I could never imagine saying anything other than yes. This is probably one of the easiest decisions I’ve ever made. I am honored to say that I am a registered organ, eye and tissue donor, are you?

By admin on 8/17/10, In Uncategorized, Tags Ambassador, candlelight vigil, donate life, pageants, spread the word, Veronica Wende, Volunteering, why should i be an organ donor