At New Mexico Donor Services, we are proud to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month (September 15 – October 15) by honoring the incredible generosity, resilience, and stories of the Hispanic and Latino communities across our state. Every year, thousands of families say “YES” to organ, eye and tissue donation, giving the gift of life to others in need. In New Mexico, our Hispanic community plays a vital role in this lifesaving mission; however, the need for registered donors remains high. Across the nation, more than 60% of those waiting for a life-saving transplant are from multicultural communities, with thousands of Hispanic men, women, and children hoping for their second chance at life.

HISPANIC DONORS, RECIPIENTS, AND THOSE WAITING

LIFESAVING NUMBERS

Did you know?

“Salvar una vida es como salvar al mundo entero.”

To save one life is like saving the whole world.

This month, we are highlighting stories of local heroes: families who have turned loss into hope, and recipients whose lives have been transformed by donation. These powerful stories serve as a reminder of the impact one “yes” can have — not just on a single person, but on entire families and communities.

Jason Padilla, Jr. – Donor Hero

Lourdes Matamoros – Recipient Family

Bill Talavera – Donor Hero

Also, you’ll also see us out in the community during Hispanic Heritage Month, sharing resources to help families start the conversation about donation. Together, we can honor our culture, celebrate life, and inspire more New Mexicans to register as donors.

Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month by:

• Registering as an organ donor at registerme.org, donatelifenm.org, through the local Motor Vehicle Department while getting a new or renewed license, or through the Apple Health App.
• Sharing your decision with your loved ones.
• Lastly, follow us on social media for inspiring local stories and events throughout the month.

When we come together, we save more lives.