INEZ — Martin Circuit Clerk Denise Gauze is recognizing National Donate Life Month in April, joining a nationwide effort to raise awareness of organ, eye and tissue donation and encouraging Kentuckians to register as donors.

Gauze said more than 100,000 children and adults across the United States are waiting for lifesaving transplants.

“Behind each number is a person, a family and a story of hope,” she said.

Kentucky’s circuit clerks have long played a role in donor awareness efforts. In 1992, they established the nonprofit now known as the Donate Life Kentucky Trust, which continues to lead public education and donor registry efforts across the Commonwealth.

Gauze said the clerks’ work continues through educational scholarships, classroom programs, community outreach and fundraising efforts that support transplant patients, caregivers and donor families. Support can include lodging near hospitals, transportation, meals and other urgent needs during times of crisis.

“Donate Life Month brings our nation together to elevate this mission and bring it to the forefront,” Gauze said. “If everyone registered, we would not have a waiting list like we do today. We can all be hope. There are no age limits or health requirements to register as a donor. The decision to say ‘yes’ means the world to those waiting.”

Although the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet now handles driver’s license services, Gauze said circuit clerks remain connected to the mission through their founding leadership, advocacy and community partnerships.

Throughout April, circuit clerk offices are participating in training and sharing educational resources to help Kentuckians better understand the impact of registering as a donor.

Residents can register, update their decision or learn more at www.donatelifeky.org.