This time of year holds special meaning for the Scadlock family, whose son was saved by a heart transplant at less than two weeks old.
“As we approach a new year, we are always grateful for the new beginning Beckham was provided because of his donor family,” says Beckham’s mother Kim.
“Our Beckham is alive because one amazing family had the courage to say ‘yes’ when they lost their precious son. To say we are grateful is an understatement. A huge understatement. And it always will be.”
Beckham, a heart recipient, was saved thanks to the generosity of a selfless donor hero
Become an advocate for new life
Each January, many of us embrace the opportunity to set fresh intentions and make resolutions that shape the months ahead. It’s a time to reflect, recalibrate, and commit to living our lives with greater purpose. At Mid-America Transplant, we invite you to join us in starting the year with gratitude and connection—all anchored by the extraordinary gift of organ, eye, and tissue donation.
Your intentions for the new year can include advocating for organ donation and inspiring others to join the cause. Advocacy can take many forms: volunteer with Mid-America Transplant, share your personal connection to organ donation, or simply start conversations in your community about the importance of registering as a donor.
Every story has the power to inspire. Perhaps you’ve been touched by organ donation through a family member or friend, or you’ve witnessed the resilience of a recipient. Sharing these experiences on social media or in everyday conversations helps dispel myths and encourages more people to say yes to the gift of life.
Talk to your family about your decision
One of the most impactful intentions you can set this year is to have an open conversation with your family about your decision to register as an organ donor. These discussions ensure your wishes are honored and provide clarity and comfort to your loved ones if they’re ever faced with making decisions on your behalf.
Many people don’t realize the importance of this step. While registering as a donor is an individual decision, sharing your intentions with family members helps align everyone’s understanding and removes uncertainty. To help you navigate this conversation, check out our guide on the reasons to tell your family you’re an organ donor.
Caring for your mind, body, and spirit in 2025
As you set goals for the year, remember that taking care of your own health honors the gift of life. Simple intentions like staying active, eating nutritious foods, and managing stress go a long way toward enhancing your well-being. By prioritizing your physical and mental health, you’re also ensuring you’re in the best position to potentially give down the road—whether that’s through living organ donation or as a registered donor.
Consider adding mindfulness or gratitude practices to your routine. Taking even a few moments each day to reflect on what you’re grateful for can deepen your appreciation for life and strengthen your commitment to making a difference for others.
Take action today, and change someone’s life forever
Before the hustle and bustle of a new year pulls us in every direction, take a moment to reflect on the stories of lives transformed by organ donation. Whether it’s a heart beating strong, lungs breathing deeply, or a child running freely thanks to a life-saving transplant, these moments remind us that life itself is the most precious gift of all.
If Beckham’s donor family had not made the decision to donate their son’s organs, his story may have had a very different ending. Instead, he is now a happy, thriving teenager who loves Nintendo and goofing around with his three siblings.
This year, say yes to an intention that could transform countless lives. Registering as an organ donor is a simple but profound act that creates a legacy of compassion, hope, and renewal. It’s a resolution that extends far beyond January, impacting lives in ways beyond your imagination.
Register as an organ, eye, and tissue donor today and take the first step toward making 2025 a year of new life for others.