[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 44, Number 13 (Monday, April 7, 2008)]
[Pages 460-461]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
Proclamation 8231--National Donate Life Month, 2008

 April 1, 2008

 By the President of the United States

 of America

 A Proclamation

    Every human life has matchless value, and during National Donate 
Life Month, we reaffirm our commitment to raising awareness about the 
importance of organ donation. We also express our appreciation to those 
who have donated organs, tissue, and marrow.
    Thousands of Americans are currently on the waiting list for an 
organ or tissue transplant. I urge all Americans to register with their 
State's donor registry; fill out, sign, and carry an organ donor card; 
say yes to organ donation on their driver's license; and share their 
decision with family and friends. By taking these steps, Americans can 
help save lives. My Administration is committed to strengthening organ 
and tissue donation programs and awareness activities. Just last year, I 
was pleased to sign the ``Charlie W. Norwood Living Organ Donation 
Act,'' which helps match more donors with those in need of transplants. 
The kindness and generosity of donors reflect the compassionate spirit 
of our Nation.
    During National Donate Life Month, we celebrate the life-saving work 
of medical professionals and researchers and the many others whose 
actions reflect our commitment to

[[Page 461]]

a brighter tomorrow. Individuals can visit organdonor.gov to learn more 
about organ and tissue donation and how they can give the gift of life.
    Now, Therefore, I, George W. Bush, President of the United States of 
America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and 
laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim April 2008 as National 
Donate Life Month. I call upon health care professionals, volunteers, 
educators, government agencies, faith-based and community groups, and 
private organizations to help raise awareness of the urgent need for 
organ and tissue donors throughout our Nation.
    In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand this first day of 
April, in the year of our Lord two thousand eight, and of the 
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-
second.
                                                George W. Bush

 [Filed with the Office of the Federal Register, 9:03 a.m., April 2, 
2008]

Note: This proclamation was published in the Federal Register on April 
3.