Bizzarro resolution demonstrates critical need for organ donors
Resolution highlights how a single person can save eight lives
Rep. Ryan Bizzarro April 15, 2026 | 2:14 PM
HARRISBURG, April 15 – State Rep. Ryan Bizzarro, D-Erie, highlighted the life-saving and life-changing impact that organ, tissue and cornea donation can deliver for people and families. His resolution designated April as Donate Life Month.
“As a proud member of the Board of Directors for Center for Organ Recovery & Education, Donate Life Month holds a deep personal meaning for me,” Bizzarro said. “I’ve seen firsthand how organ, tissue and cornea donation transforms lives – offering hope, healing and second chances for countless people and families. One selfless decision truly has the power to transform and save lives. This month, I encourage everyone to learn more, register as an organ donor and have important conversations on becoming a donor with your loved ones. The gift of life is the greatest gift we can give.”
Approximately 7,000 people are awaiting transplants in Pennsylvania, and every 10 minutes another person is added to the national transplant waiting list. CORE is one of 57 federally designated not-for-profit organ procurement organizations in the nation. It partners with more than 150 hospitals and health care facilities by coordinating the surgical recovery of organs, tissues and corneas for transplantation.
CORE, located in Allegheny County, works to dispel myths of organ donation, and raise awareness for the organs and life-saving efforts during the donation process that occurs after a person sustains injuries that result in brain death, which means the donor’s brain has stopped working and will not work again.
In 2025, 484 donors in Western Pennsylvania and West Virginia helped to provide 1,191 transplants, according to CORE. There were an additional 1,885 tissue donors, helping another 140,000 people, as well as 990 corneas transplanted.
Before introducing H.R. 432 to designate April 2026 as Donate Life Month, Bizzarro has been an active supporter for CORE, including leading the House Majority Policy Committee and state lawmakers on a tour and roundtable discussion at CORE.