By Tony McVeigh, Kentucky Public Radio
FRANKFORT, Ky. -- – Gov. Steve Beshear is urging Kentuckians to become organ donors. In a ceremony at the State Capitol Wednesday, Beshear thanked circuit court clerks, who have been actively promoting organ donation since 1992.
"All of us have a wonderful opportunity to make a huge difference by deciding to donate our organs and tissue, after we die, to others who need them. There's no doubt that science and medicine together can work miracles. And we can become a part of those miracles," says Beshear.
Brandi Speck of Lexington says a generous organ donation saved her son Riley's life.
"When he was 15 months old, just a little baby, he was diagnosed with restrictive cardiomyopathy and the only option for him was a heart transplant. So, at age 18 months he received his new heart and he's been doing great ever since. And he's six and a half now."
At least 700 Kentuckians are currently waiting for life-saving organ transplants. April is National Donate Life Month. There is no cost to be an organ donor and people of all ages and medical conditions can be considered.