Heart Transplant Survivor Sarah Miletta Honors Organ Donor Family in Unique Event to Raise Awareness for Organ Donation”.

Heart recipient Sarah Miletta proudly unfurled a ‘Donate Life’ flag during an event held at Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center. The event, which took place on the medical center campus, aimed to raise awareness for organ donation. Organ donors and recipients were honored during the ceremony, and the importance of organ donation was highlighted.

Patients who have benefited from life-saving organ donations shared their testimonies, including Patti and Sarah Miletta, who both underwent heart transplants at the medical center due to a rare genetic mutation called idiopathic cardiomyopathy. Sarah Miletta, who received her new heart in April 2023, expressed her gratitude to her donor family and emphasized that she would do everything to honor her donor’s legacy.

The event also included remarks from representatives of the medical center and the Gift of Life Donor Program. April is recognized as National Donate Life Month, a time to honor donors, celebrate transplant recipients, and bring attention to those still waiting for a transplant. Donate Life America reports that over 100,000 people are currently on the organ transplant waiting list, with sixteen individuals dying each day while waiting for a transplant. To make a difference, individuals are encouraged to register as organ donors through Donate Life America.