4/13/2026
CHRISTUS Health recognizes April as National Donate Life Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about the lifesaving impact of organ, eye and tissue donation and encouraging individuals to register as donors.
In the U.S., more than 100,000 people are waiting for an organ transplant, and one donor can save up to eight lives, enhancing the lives of more than 75 others through tissue and cornea donation, according to Donate Life America.
“Organ donation is one of the most powerful ways someone can leave a lasting impact,” said Kathy Rodgers, director of trauma for CHRISTUS Southeast Texas Health System. “By registering as a donor and sharing that decision with your loved ones, you have the opportunity to save and heal lives.”
People can register as donors when obtaining or renewing their driver’s license or by signing up online through the Donate Life registry. Individuals of all ages and medical backgrounds can potentially become donors, and medical professionals will evaluate eligibility at the time of donation.
April Bertrand is a registered nurse at CHRISTUS Southeast Texas – St. Elizabeth. She knows firsthand how impactful organ donation is.
In 2014, her 16-year-old daughter, Lexy, died in a car crash.
“I vividly remember the conversation we had just months before,” Bertrand said. “Lexy expressed her wish to save lives through organ donation when she got her license. I didn’t know at the time that conversation would later become the foundation of her legacy.”
The Bertrand family was approached at the hospital by a representative from Southwest Transplant Alliance, asking if they would consider honoring Lexy’s wishes through organ donation.
“I knew fulfilling Lexy’s decision was the only answer,” Bertrand said. “Lexy's heart, kidneys and liver were successfully transplanted, saving three lives.”
Today, she finds comfort knowing Lexy’s legacy lives on through those she helped save.
“I’m in awe of how our bodies can give life to someone else,” Bertrand said. “My mission is to raise awareness about the power of organ donation and encourage families to have the conversation, register and become a hero like Lexy.”
