Terry Palava shares organ transplant story as Needles proclaims Donate Life Month

During the recent City Council meeting in Needles, a heartfelt proclamation was made to recognize April 2023 as National Donate Life Month. Terry Pilawa, a Legacy Ambassador and organ transplant recipient, shared her personal journey of battling pulmonary fibrosis and the life-saving impact of organ donation.

Pilawa recounted her diagnosis and the challenges she faced after being told she had only five years to live without a transplant. After enduring years of health struggles, she received a call in February 2015 that changed her life—she had been matched with a donor. The young woman, Maria, who passed away at just 22 years old, not only saved Pilawa's life with her lungs but also helped another individual with her heart.

Expressing her gratitude, Pilawa emphasized the importance of organ donation and encouraged community members to consider becoming donors. "All it does, it saves lives," she stated, highlighting the profound impact that a simple decision can have on others.

In conjunction with Pilawa's story, the City Council officially proclaimed April as Donate Life Month in Needles. The resolution encourages residents to register as organ donors when applying for or renewing their driver's licenses or ID cards at the DMV. This initiative aims to raise awareness about the critical need for organ donations and to honor those who have made the selfless choice to donate.

The meeting underscored the community's commitment to supporting life-saving measures and fostering a culture of generosity and hope. As the city embraces this month of awareness, residents are reminded of the power of giving and the potential to change lives through organ donation.