LifeShare Network, Oklahoma’s nonprofit organization dedicated to saving lives and inspiring hope through organ, eye and tissue donation, celebrated its 40th anniversary on June 4 with an evening honoring donor heroes, donor families, transplant recipients, healthcare partners and community supporters whose generosity has shaped four decades of lifesaving impact.
Held at City and State Venue and Events in Oklahoma City, the celebration reflected on LifeShare’s history, recognized leaders and advocates who have advanced the mission of donation, and looked ahead to the future of saving and healing lives across Oklahoma.
The event raised more than $44,000 for the LifeShare Foundation, which is dedicated to raising awareness, providing ongoing support for those touched by organ donation and advancing research to honor the gift of life.
“For 40 years, LifeShare has been honored to walk alongside donor families, transplant recipients and healthcare partners in carrying out the lifesaving mission of donation,” said Jeffrey Orlowski, President and CEO of LifeShare Network. “This celebration was not only an opportunity to reflect on the incredible impact of donor heroes and their families, but also to invest in the future through the LifeShare Foundation and the work that lies ahead.”
The evening featured the presentation of eight LifeShare Legacy Awards recognizing individuals and organizations that have made significant contributions to the donation and transplantation community. Award winners include Antlers Tag Agency, Duncan Tag Office, Mike McClellin, Cheryl and Dan Manley, Pamela Spanbauer, Dr. Benjamin Cowley, Jr., Mary Johnson and Kay Shields Ragan. Guests also explored interactive exhibits highlighting LifeShare’s 40-year history and heard powerful stories from those whose lives have been forever changed through the gift of donation.
LifeShare extends its sincere gratitude to the event sponsors whose support helped make the celebration possible. Special recognition is given to Legacy Sponsor Global Transplant Solutions and Champion Sponsors MTF Biologics, Crowe Dunlevy, Sallop Insurance Inc., and The Zenith for their commitment to advancing LifeShare’s mission and strengthening the future of donation in Oklahoma.
Since its founding in 1986, LifeShare has facilitated thousands of organ and tissue donations in the state of Oklahoma, helping save and heal lives through the extraordinary generosity of donor heroes and their families. LifeShare remains committed to inspiring donor registration, supporting families and advancing transplantation for generations to come. LifeShare serves as the federally designated organ procurement organization for Oklahoma and works alongside hospitals, medical professionals and community partners to facilitate the gift of life through organ and tissue donation.
