San Ramon Regional Medical Center, Donor Network West Unveil Artwork

San Ramon, Calif. – Through the generosity of Bridge to Life, San Ramon Regional Medical Center and Donor Network West unveiled a special piece of artwork that was designed in honor of donor patients.

Artist Marlene Lewis knows art has a life of its own, through its ability to keep giving, just as the gift of organ and tissue donation provides. Her artwork – Hearts of Life – was unveiled on Wednesday, Aug. 14, at San Ramon Regional Medical Center. It will remain on display in the hospital’s dining room.

“Our hospital team is made up of individuals who are committed to making a difference in the lives of people every day. Our partnership with Donor Network West is an extension of this passion we have and the mission we serve. We are grateful to be partners with such a wonderful organization,” said Ann Lucena, CEO of San Ramon Regional Medical Center. “The Hearts of Life artwork will remind us every day of the gift of life shared by our donors and the impact they have had on thousands of organ recipients in California.”

The plaque next to Hearts of Life reads:

A heart transplant extended Marlene’s sister’s life for more than 10 years. This act of kindness from a perfect stranger is the inspiration for the artist’s artwork.

This art piece represents how one life can change the lives of many others through the gift of organ donation. The heart represents the grateful recipients and their families for the gift of more time, while the dark background reminds us of the thousands who wait for a second chance to live.

A hero is present in all of us who choose to help those in need. We all have the power to transform a life.

Thanks to a special partnership, Donor Network West has its own dedicated operating suite at San Ramon Regional Medical Center, which their team is allowed to utilize 24/7. Donors may be transferred to the hospital any time of day, reducing the timeframe for the recovery of organs.

According to Donor Network West, one organ donor can save up to eight people through organ donation and can heal another 75 people through tissue donation. More than 10,000 people are currently waiting for a life-saving organ transplant in Northern California and Nevada.

To become an organ donor, please visit www.donornetworkwest.org.