Donation Essentials Blog
Month of Remembrance: Remembering Organ, Eye and Tissue Donors this November
The Month of Remembrance
November is often referred to as the “month of remembrance” in Christian communities, a time to remember those that have passed on. Sprinkled 
throughout the month are observances celebrated throughout different communities around the world dedicated to keeping their memories alive.
Many Observances
All Saints Day: November 1st is All Saints Day, when Catholics remember and honor the saints who have been commemorated by the Catholic Church.
All Souls Day: November 2nd is All Souls day, a day to remember all those who have died and pray for their souls. Many parishes invite members to bring in pictures of loved ones to place on an altar so all may honor and remember them throughout the month.
El Día de los Muertos: In Mexico and other Latin American communities, November 2nd is also known as el Día de los Muertos or Day of the Dead. Families take the time to visit the graves of their loved ones and hold a vigil of remembrance at the cemetery. They may also construct a small altar inside their home as a reminder of their loved one throughout the month or the entire year.
Remembrance Day: Remembrance Day is celebrated on November 11th throughout Europe, marking the end of World War I with the signing of the Armistice in France. Alternately, November 11th is the day we honor and remember our veterans in the United States.
National Donor Sabbath: Observed two weekends before Thanksgiving, this year November 15th-17th, National Donor Sabbath (NDS) is a time for the faithful from all denominations to come together and raise awareness about organ, eye and tissue donation. Some faith communities use this time to honor those who have died and gave life through donation and transplantation. NDS is also a great reminder that all major religions support organ, eye and tissue donation and many view it as a final act of kindness.
Thanksgiving: Lastly, we mustn’t forget that Thanksgiving is a day to remember all of the blessings in our lives and give thanks for all the good that has happened throughout the year!
How YOU Can Help Remember:
Talk about organ, eye and tissue donation within your faith community! You can help keep the memory of those who gave the gift of life, alive, through donation. We have FREE educational resources you can access to help start the conversation. You can also follow us on social media (Colorado, Wyoming) and share our posts throughout November to raise awareness.
As always, you can help by signing up to be an organ, eye and tissue donor when you obtain or renew your driver license or state ID, or sign up anytime online at DonateLifeColorado.org, DoneVidaColorado.org or DonateLifeWyoming.org.
Here at Donor Alliance, we will remember our organ, eye and tissue donors throughout November. Regardless of background, language or faith ALL donors selflessly gave the gift of life and that is something important to remember and honor this month and beyond!
