Med student hosts drive to give patients second chance at life

Jennifer Grage

A member of UIC medical student Jennifer Grage’s family was given a second chance at life after receiving an organ transplant.

Her partner’s father received and lived with a transplant for 10 years before passing away recently. Because of her personal experience, Grage is working with the nonprofit Gift of Hope to organize campus events to raise awareness of organ/tissue donation.

“My partner’s father received an organ donation and wanted to pay it forward, honoring Gift of Hope by donating his body,” Grage said.

Grage is hosting three events to raise awareness and help those who want to learn more about the donation and registration process. Drives will take place from noon to 1 p.m. on Feb. 5, 12 and 19 in Student Center West.

Grage also hosted a lunch Monday featuring Monica Fox, an organ recipient from UI Health who shared her story.

“Gift of Hope is a phenomenal organization that provides such an amazing gift to patients, and I’m very excited about the event,” Grage said.

Gift of Hope is a not-for-profit organ and tissue donation network that offers public education in Illinois and Indiana.

Register online to become an organ/tissue donor in Illinois.