AVMC Hosts Flag Raising Ceremony to Mark Donate Life Month and Promote Organ Donation
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(LANCASTER, CA – April 2, 2025) – Antelope Valley Medical Center (AVMC), and OneLegacy, the organ, eye and tissue recovery organization serving the greater Los Angeles area, come together to host a special flag-raising ceremony to mark the beginning of National Donate Life Month. This annual event recognizes the impact of donation, celebrates the lives saved through transplantation, and raises awareness about the urgent need for registered donors.
“Organ donation is a critical lifeline for thousands of individuals waiting for transplants,” said Edward Mirzabegian, Chief Executive Officer at Antelope Valley Medical Center. “This flag-raising ceremony is a testament to our ongoing efforts to honor donors and their families, and highlights the profound difference we can make together in the lives of those awaiting transplants.”
With over 100,000 people nationwide—and nearly 20,000 in California alone—awaiting a life-saving transplant, the need for donors has never been greater. A single organ donor can save up to eight lives and enhance the well-being of 75 more through cornea and tissue donation. Registering as a donor is simple and can be done at a local DMV or online at www.OneLegacy.org/Register.
This year’s event will highlight the inspiring story of Raul S., a transplant recipient who was given a second chance at life. At 16, Raul registered as an organ donor, unaware of how donation would shape his future. Years later, he was diagnosed with end-stage liver disease and given just five months to live. Thanks to a generous donor, he received a life-saving liver transplant within days of being placed on the transplant list.
Media is invited to interview participants, including donor and recipient families; and take photos of the ceremony.
What: Flag Raising Ceremony to Honor National Donate Life Month
When: Thursday, April 3, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.
Where: Antelope Valley Medical Center – Main Entrance, Flag Poles
1600 West Avenue J, Lancaster, CA 93534
RSVP: Cynthia Frausto, Director, Marketing & Public Relations cynthia.frausto@avmc.org
About Antelope Valley Medical Center
Antelope Valley Medical Center (AVMC) is the leading hospital in the heart of the Antelope Valley, delivering high-quality, compassionate healthcare to the community since 1955. As a 420-bed, full-service, acute-care hospital, AVMC offers comprehensive medical services, including emergency care, advanced surgical procedures, maternity and neonatal care, cardiovascular care, and the region’s only trauma center, pediatric and inpatient behavioral health unit. With a focus on innovation and compassionate care, AVMC is dedicated to improving the health and well-being of the communities it serves. For more information, visit www.avmc.org, call (661) 949-5000, or follow us at @avmedicalcenter.
