Lower Bucks Hospital Celebrates National Donate Life Month with Heartfelt Flag Raising Event

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Lower Bucks Hospital Celebrates National Donate Life Month with Heartfelt Flag Raising Event

Bristol, PA (April 10, 2025) -April marks National Donate Life Month, a time to honor the gift of life through organ donation, and Lower Bucks Hospital proudly commemorated this occasion with a meaningful flag-raising ceremony. This year also marks the 50th anniversary of the Gift of Life, a testament to the enduring partnership that has empowered countless lives through organ donation.

"Today we stand together, not only to raise a flag but to raise awareness about the importance of organ donation," said Michael Motte, CEO of Lower Bucks Hospital. "Our partnership with Gift of Life is vital in transforming the lives of those in need. We are committed to fostering a culture of compassion and support for donors and their families."

National Donate Life Month serves as a powerful platform to increase awareness and encourage registration among potential organ and tissue donors. This year, the Gift of Life is aiming to engage the community with a goal of signing up 50,000 new organ donors in celebration of its 50 years of saving lives.

"As we commemorate National Donate Life Month and celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Gift of Life, we are reminded of the incredible power of compassion and generosity that defines our mission," said Denise Cirio, Gift of Life coordinator. "Every registration as an organ donor is a beacon of hope for those awaiting a second chance at life. Together with our partners at Lower Bucks Hospital, we are committed to fostering a culture of support and understanding for donor families. Let us honor the selfless acts of those who choose to give life, and inspire others to join this vital cause. Together, we can save lives and create a legacy of kindness that endures for generations to come."

"We urge everyone to consider registering as a donor and to share their decision with their loved ones," said Renee Stewart, RN, Chief Nursing Officer of Lower Bucks Hospital. "Each donation is a testament to the kindness and generosity of individuals who, even in their darkest moments, choose to give the precious gift of life to others."

At Lower Bucks Hospital, the dedication to building a supportive culture for organ donation encompasses every member of the team-from executive leadership to physicians and nurses. In 2024, the hospital proudly facilitated the donation of seven organs and life-enhancing tissue from two individuals, offering hope to those on the transplant waitlist.

The emotional impact of organ donation was poignantly illustrated by guest speaker John Branton, a liver transplant recipient who received his life-saving gift 17 years ago. "My donor saved my life, and I am very grateful for that," Branton shared. "I've truly had a wonderful life since my transplant. It's important for us to share these stories, as they highlight the profound difference one person can make."

Branton's journey resonates deeply, reminding us of the selfless decisions made by donor families during their most challenging times. As we reflect on our progress in transplant medicine, we acknowledge that these advancements are only possible through the generosity and kindness of those who choose to donate.

As the ceremony concluded, attendees raised the flag and watched it unfurl against the blue sky, the crowd felt a surge of unity and purpose. It was a reminder that the path from donation to transplant is a collective effort-one that requires the dedication of healthcare professionals and the compassion of everyday individuals.

Lower Bucks Hospital continues to stand as a beacon of hope, a place where lives are saved and dreams are rekindled. The message was clear: Together, we can increase the donor registry and save more lives. Those wishing to learn more about organ donation and how to register can visit donors1.org.

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About Lower Bucks Hospital: About Lower Bucks Hospital: Lower Bucks Hospital is a community hospital, serving the Lower Bucks County region with medical, surgical, and emergency care. Located in historic Bristol, Pennsylvania, the hospital is well-known for its knowledgeable medical staff, including cardiology, orthopedics, radiology, wound care, and general surgery. The hospital has more than 200 physicians on staff, as well as another 700 employees. As part of Prime Healthcare, headquartered in Ontario, California, Lower Bucks Hospital is focused on becoming one of the leaders in technology.

Prime Healthcare operates 51 acute care hospitals in 14 states, including Roxborough Memorial Hospital in Philadelphia, Lower Bucks Hospital in Bristol, and Suburban Community Hospital in Montgomery County. For more information, please visit https://lowerbuckshosp.com/contact-us/area-hospitals/.

About Prime Healthcare and the Prime Healthcare Foundation: Prime Healthcare is an award-winning health system operating 51 hospitals and more than 360 outpatient locations in 14 states, providing over 2.5 million patient visits annually. It is one of the nation's leading health systems, with nearly 57,000 employees and physicians. Eighteen of the Prime Healthcare hospitals are members of the Prime Healthcare Foundation, a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit public charity. Based in Ontario, California, Prime Healthcare is nationally recognized for award-winning quality care and has been named a 10 Top and 15 Top Health System by Truven Health Analytics. Its hospitals have been named among the nation's "100 Top Hospitals" 69 times and have received more Patient Safety Excellence Awards from Healthgrades than any other health system in the past eight years. To learn more about Prime Healthcare, visit: www.primehealthcare.com. To learn more about Prime Healthcare Foundation, visit: www.primehealthcarefoundation.org.