February is American Heart Month, a time to think about heart health and the many lives affected by heart disease. You probably know someone whose life has been impacted by it. Right now, more than 3,900 people in the U.S. are waiting for a lifesaving heart transplant. In 2023, almost one in every four deaths in the country was caused by heart disease, according to the CDC. These numbers show why raising awareness and taking care of our hearts is so important.
For Julia, a 2x heart recipient from Thornton, Colorado, the significance of this month is deeply personal. Born with dilated cardiomyopathy, she faced major challenges from an early age. Her first heart transplant in 2008 gave her the chance to experience life more fully, but after multiple episodes of rejection, her transplanted heart began to fail. During her senior year of high school, after spending four months on the transplant waitlist, Julia received a second lifesaving heart transplant.
Before her transplants, Julia’s life was limited. She had to give up dancing, a passion that once brought her joy, and frequent doctor visits disrupted her education and daily routines. Receiving her second heart changed everything, giving her the opportunity to rediscover the activities she loved and pursue her dreams.
“No ‘thank you’ could properly display my gratitude for receiving such a gift,” said Julia. “Hopefully, through my actions, by living my most authentic life, and through giving back I can show my gratitude.”
Today, Julia dedicates her life to honoring the generosity of her donors. She volunteers in her community, advocates for organ, eye, and tissue donation, and serves as President of CU-Boulder’s Student Organ Donation Advocates chapter.
Julia was fortunate to have been given a second chance at life through organ donation, but many others are still waiting for that chance. This month, we urge Colorado and Wyoming residents to consider signing up to become organ, eye and tissue donors at the time of their death. It’s quick and easy to say “yes” at the DMV or anytime at Donate Life Colorado or Donate Life Wyoming. Deciding to register as a deceased donor could help save the lives of patients waiting for heart transplants.
SODA CU Boulder
Join Donor Alliance at the Team Rocky Mountain Fundraiser for the 2026 Transplant Games of America. Play for Life is a high-energy pickleball tournament and silent auction benefiting Team Rocky Mountain, the host team for the 2026 Transplant Games of America—a national celebration of life, strength, and possibility after transplant. The tournament will feature 24 doubles teams, beginning with round-robin play to guarantee plenty of court time, followed by an elimination round to crown our champions. Whether you’re here to compete, cheer, or connect, this event brings together athletes, supporters, and advocates in a fun, mission-driven atmosphere. Off the court, guests can bid in our silent auction and enjoy a Taco dinner.
REGISTER: https://runsignup.com/Race/Info/CO/Thorton/TRMPlayForLife
April is National Donate Life Month, a national observance highlighting the importance of organ, eye and tissue donation. Flag-raising ceremonies bring awareness of what it means to be an organ donor and highlights the partnership between Donor Alliance and HCA HealthONE Presbyterian St. Luke’s Medical Center.
April is National Donate Life Month, a national observance highlighting the importance of organ, eye and tissue donation. Proclamations bring awareness of what it means to be an organ donor and highlights the partnership between Donor Alliance and our community. This event will take place in partnership with Chris Klug Foundation.
April is National Donate Life Month, a national observance highlighting the importance of organ, eye and tissue donation. Proclamations bring awareness of what it means to be an organ donor and highlights the partnership between Donor Alliance and our community. This event will take place in partnership with Chris Klug Foundation.
