February 7, 2025 (Virginia Beach, VA) – LifeNet Health’s Organ Procurement Organization (OPO) is proud to mark another milestone in its mission to save and improve lives. In 2024, LifeNet Health achieved its seventh record-breaking year in the past eight years with 299 donors providing 857 organs for transplant, a remarkable 25% increase over the previous year. This achievement reflects the unwavering commitment of LifeNet Health’s hospital and transplant center partners, the dedication of its team, and, most importantly, the generosity of donors and their families who make these lifesaving gifts possible.

“Every organ donation represents a second chance at life, made possible by the generosity of donors and their families,” said LifeNet Health President and CEO Rony Thomas. “This milestone is a testament to the power of compassion and collaboration—honoring the legacy of donors while bringing renewed hope to those awaiting transplant.”

Education and outreach remain central to LifeNet Health’s mission. In 2024, it hosted nearly 400 events across Virginia to raise awareness about the importance of organ donation. In addition, its 30-month bereavement program, offered through Donor Family Services, provided compassionate support to 2,948 families in Virginia and 5,360 families nationwide ensuring that those who give the gift of life are honored and remembered.

Innovations Driving Improved Outcomes

LifeNet Health continues to advance organ donation and improve transplant success rates through groundbreaking innovations. The adoption of new mobile pathology technology has significantly reduced critical testing times, increasing the likelihood of successful kidney transplants. Additionally, it has enhanced its training programs to ensure donor families receive the highest level of compassionate care during their decision-making process.

Collaboration with hospitals and transplant centers remains at the heart of LifeNet Health’s efforts. “Our healthcare partners are instrumental in making donation possible,” said Todd Hubler, LifeNet Health Vice President and OPO Executive Director. “We are committed to continuously improving our processes to better support them and honor the trust of donor families.”

Addressing the Critical Need

Despite these efforts, the need for donated organs remains urgent. More than 115,000 people in the U.S., including over 3,400 in Virginia, are waiting for lifesaving transplants. The gap between organ supply and demand highlights the critical importance of growing donation awareness.

Legislative advancements like the HOPE (HIV Organ Policy Equity) Act, signed in 2013, are helping bridge this gap. This law allows individuals with well-managed HIV to donate organs to recipients with HIV. In a groundbreaking moment for Virginia and the nation, the family of Zack Pate made the courageous decision to authorize his donation, making him the first heart donor under the HOPE Act in Virginia and the third in the U.S. This achievement marks a significant step forward in improving health equity.

Join the Mission

LifeNet Health invites everyone to join this lifesaving mission. By registering as an organ donor, you can help honor the legacy of donors and provide hope and healing to patients in need. Registration is easy and can be completed at your local DMV or online at RegisterMe.org. To learn more, visit LifeNetHealth.org/register.

Together, we can honor donors, support their families, and bring hope to those in need.

Media Contact:

Jessica Lee

Jessica_Lee@lifenethealth.org

About LifeNet Health

As a global leader in regenerative medicine, LifeNet Health continues to push the boundaries to give healing every advantage. The organization offers groundbreaking transplantation and cellular solutions that support healthcare providers and powers scientific research. This forward-focused approach has improved life for millions of patients, all while honoring donor heroes and their families. For more information, go to https://www.lifenethealth.org.