In a vibrant display, buildings across cities and towns in Colorado and Wyoming are lighting up iconic locations with hues of blue and green. So, what's the story behind it?
The blue and green lightings are part of an initiative in April to raise awareness about the importance of registering as an organ, eye and tissue donor for National Donate Life Month. It’s also a time to honor the heroic donors and their families who said “yes” to organ, eye and tissue donation. This annual observance, recognized nationally, serves as a reminder of the critical need of those waiting for a lifesaving organ transplant. Right now, nearly 1,300 people across Colorado and Wyoming are on the waiting list.
Government entities, organizations and hospitals across the region are lending their support by illuminating their buildings in the signature blue and green colors. From the striking Marion H. Rochelle Gateway Center at the University of Wyoming to the iconic oil derrick in Casper, Wyoming, these landmarks are casting blue and green beacons of hope in the night sky.
One noteworthy event is the third annual National Donate Life Month Lighting Event at the City and County of Denver Building. On Thursday, April 11, the event aims to inspire the community about the power of donation. Attendees will witness the transformation of the City & County of Denver Building as it takes on a blue and green glow to show support and raise awareness for organ, eye and tissue donation.
The event will feature remarks from Jennifer Prinz, CEO & President of Donor Alliance, and powerful stories from Donor Alliance advocate volunteers to connect everyone to this lifesaving mission. It's an opportunity to champion a cause that touches countless lives.
In addition to blue and green lighting events, Blue & Green Spirit Week will be Saturday, April 6 through Friday, April 12. Each day is dedicated to a special theme and will include: recognizing donors and volunteers; giving hope to those waiting; and engaging residents in at-home activities to help raise awareness. The entire week leads up to National Donate Life Blue & Green Day on Friday, April 12. Coloradans and Wyomingites are encouraged to wear blue and green on this day to promote the importance of registering as an organ, eye and tissue donor to save and heal more lives in our community.
As the Rocky Mountain region transforms into a palette of blue and green, let it serve as a reminder of the difference just one person’s decision can make. At the time of their death, just one person can save up to eight lives through organ donation and save and heal up to 75 lives through tissue donation.
The wait list does not wait. To show your support this month, the best thing you can do is register as an organ, eye and tissue donor. Say “yes” the next time you obtain or renew your driver license/state ID. You can also register anytime at DonateLifeColorado.org or DonateLifeWyoming.org. In addition, wear blue and green on April 12 to show your support and start a conversation with your family about your decision. Let's come together to save and heal more lives in our community and shine a light on those who have made that heroic decision.
