American Liver Foundation Celebrates National Donate Life Month Highlighting Network for Living Donors

~ALF offers numerous programs, webinars & critical solutions regarding Organ Donation~

FAIRFIELD, N.J., April 1, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- April is officially recognized as National Donate Life Month, a time when American Liver Foundation (ALF) joins the nation in honoring those willing to give the gift of life through organ donation. With nearly 9,000 people in America waiting for a liver transplant, the need for living donors is tremendous. ALF's Living Donor Network was created to address this critical need and was launched in 2025, making it the first-ever non-directed liver donor database available to individuals willing to donate part of their liver with transplant centers nationwide. ALF continually builds awareness regarding the ongoing need for lifesaving liver transplants because living donor liver transplants offer a solution for those in need.

"Although we celebrate National Donate Life Month every year, ALF works hard each and every day to put a spotlight on the need for liver organ donation and the importance of lifesaving living donor liver transplants; we're proud to be part of the solution," said Lorraine Stiehl, CEO of American Liver Foundation and a caregiver for a transplant recipient. "ALF's Living Donor Network, ongoing educational webinars, the resource center, and numerous support groups ensure that liver patients, their families and those who care for them have the information and encouragement needed throughout their liver transplant journey."

ALF's Living Donor Network can help increase the number of living donor liver transplants for U.S. adults and children as well as eliminate the pediatric liver candidate waitlist. The Network is voluntary and open to anyone who would like to become a non-directed liver donor. A non-directed liver donor, formerly called altruistic donors, are individuals willing to give a portion of their liver to someone in need that they do not know. Those interested must be 18 years of age or older and reside in the U.S. Learn more and sign up at ALF Living Donor Network.

During the month of April and throughout the year, patients, caregivers and families can participate in the following educational opportunities and support groups:

• Sharing the Journey, an ALF support network for Caregivers takes place on Thursday, April 2 from 6:30 to 8 pm. ET. Caregivers have many responsibilities that can lead to feelings of stress, sadness, isolation, and fatigue. This program provides the resources and support needed so caregivers can cope with the challenges of caregiving. All sessions are facilitated by a licensed social worker. You must be 18 or older to participate in this FREE support network that meets via Zoom on the first Thursday of each month.
• Sharing the Journey, an ALF support network for Patients takes place on Thursday, April 9 from 1 to 2:30 pm. ET. ALF offers those who have been diagnosed with liver disease as well as those awaiting a liver transplant with a support network to share their unique journey. Having a connection with others going through exactly what you're experiencing can reduce your feelings of isolation and help you find ways to cope. All sessions are facilitated by a licensed social worker. You must be 18 or older to participate in this FREE support network that meets via Zoom on the second Thursday of each month.
• The 2026 ReBirthday Celebration is on Saturday, April 11, 2026, at 11 am ET and will honor liver transplant recipients as they celebrate the gift of life and renewed health during National Donate Life Month. Renowned hepatologist Dr. Sudha Kodali of Houston Methodist will be the keynote speaker sharing her insights and encouragement to transplant recipients, living donors, caregivers, individuals waiting for a transplant and the families and friends who support them. This celebration will be held via Zoom. To learn more and register, go to: liverfoundation.org/rebirthday. 
• Sharing the Journey, an ALF support network for Liver Transplant Recipients takes place on Thursday, April 16 from 1 to 2:30 pm. ET. This group meets to allow transplant recipients an opportunity to connect with those who share their unique experiences with organ donation. They get a chance to share their thoughts and concerns while bonding with others on the same journey. Please note that there is no medical advice or counseling during any of these sessions, but each session will be facilitated by a licensed social worker. You must be 18 or older to participate in this FREE support network that meets via Zoom on the third Thursday of each month.
• ALF also offers a Living Donor Liver Transplant Information Center that provides free resources for those seeking a living donor as well as those who are considering becoming organ donors. The Center comes with a complete toolkit developed for people who've been evaluated and approved as a liver transplant candidate, been placed on the national transplant waiting list, and have decided to pursue the option of finding a living donor. Living donor liver transplant can be a lifesaving alternative to waiting on the transplant list. It can save you valuable time, reduce the risk of your liver condition getting worse, and result in improved long-term outcomes. The toolkit includes helpful tips to find a transplant center, educational materials, informative videos, and everything you'll need to undertake the process of finding a living donor.

ALF invites everyone to participate in National Donate Life Month by attending events, sharing stories, and considering registering as an organ donor. By coming together, we can save lives, honor the legacy of organ donors, and offer hope to those waiting for a transplant.

For more information about ALF, go to www.liverfoundation.org and for more details regarding organ donation, go to www.liverfoundation.org/livingdonor.  If you have any questions or concerns regarding liver disease, please call our FREE helpline at 1.800.GO.LIVER (800.465.4837).

About the American Liver Foundation
American Liver Foundation (ALF) is a national community of patients, caregivers and medical professionals dedicated to helping people improve their liver health. Providing guidance and life-saving resources, we are a beacon for the 100 million Americans affected by liver disease. We advocate for patients and families, fund medical research, and educate the public about liver wellness and disease prevention. We bring people together through our educational programs and events and create a network of support that lasts a lifetime. ALF is the largest organization focused on all liver diseases and the trusted voice for patients and families living with liver disease. Celebrating 50 years of impact, leading the next 50 years forward. For more information, please visit www.liverfoundation.org or call: 1.800.GO.LIVER (800-465-4837).

Media Contacts:                                                                                                     

SOURCE American Liver Foundation