Organ Donation Campaign Aims To Dissolve Myths

DENVER (CBS4)- When drivers in Colorado renew their driver's license they can also renew their commitment to saving lives. People may hesitate because of misinformation.

This week is "Resolve To Donate Life" week when Colorado's organ donation campaign works to dissolve myths surrounding the process.

Joe Templeton signed up to be an organ donor when he got his driver's permit at age 15. At 22, Joe died of complications from a seizure.

"He always wanted to help people," said Joe's mother Robin Mitchell.

Joe lost his life but as an organ and tissue donor he helped save seven men.

"Heart recipient, double lung recipient, liver, both kidneys and two corneas," said Mitchell.

Mitchell has met five of the recipients. She said knowing them is comforting.

LINK: CBSDenver.com Donate Life Section

"Every time I see them we have a big hug. You know, you can hear and feel the life and so you know that's Joe," said Mitchell.

Sixty-seven percent of Coloradans asked say yes to organ donation. Those who don't often believe they are too old or unhealthy.

Donor Alliance said this isn't true.

"There are no restrictions to registering to be a donor," said Donor Alliance Director of Communications Jennifer Moe.

Some people worry with the red heart symbol on their license that indicates them as an organ donor that doctors won't try as hard to save them. Donor Alliance said that is not true and doctors will continue to do everything they can regardless if the person is an organ donor or not.

Since Joe's death, Mitchell has become an advocate. She worked to create the Donate Life license plate as a tribute to the son she lost and a reminder of his lifesaving gift.

"We all have the potential at some point to be a hero to someone else," said Mitchell.

RELATED LINK: donatelifecolorado.org