The St. Thomas Elgin General Hospital is once again honouring the life-changing impact of organ and tissue donation.
As part of Be a Donor Month, the hospital has added 15 new leaves to its Tree of Life, recognizing tissue donors from 2025 and the lasting difference they’ve made in the lives of others.
Located in the Hallway of Heroes outside the Intensive Care Unit, the Tree of Life now features more than 150 handcrafted leaves, each one representing a donor and their legacy.
Dr. Fahad Sheikh, Intensivist and Physician Lead for Organ and Tissue Donation at STEGH, says each leaf reflects a deeply personal decision made during a difficult time, with donors and their families giving others the chance at improved health and quality of life.
The annual tradition continues a growing tribute at STEGH. Last year, 28 donors were recognized, while 24 donors were honoured the year before—including two organ donors who helped save five lives.
Across Ontario, more than 4.7 million people are registered organ and tissue donors, with local registration rates in St. Thomas sitting higher than the provincial average at 47 percent.
Hospital officials are encouraging residents to learn more about organ and tissue donation, register their decision, and have conversations with loved ones about their wishes.
One organ donor can save up to eight lives and you can take the two minutes to register at BeADonor.ca.
Written by: Kennedy Freeman
