Miriam Hospital in New Year’s Day Rose Parade

PROVIDENCE, R.I. – The Miriam Hospital has partnered with New England Organ Bank (NEOB) to honor and remember those who gave the gift of life through organ and tissue donation. On January 1, the Donate Life Rose Parade Float titled “Light Up the World” will include a dedication garden made up of roses with handwritten dedications by hospital CEOs across the country, including one from Arthur J. Sampson, president of The Miriam Hospital.

Sampson said, “The Miriam Hospital and its staff recognize the value of, and need for, organ and tissue donation. Our rose dedication serves as a recognition of our commitment to organ donation. It is also to remember and thank those who have saved lives through the NEOB and to celebrate the recipients who are alive today. We are excited to be part of this celebration of life watched by millions on New Year’s Day.”

Since its debut on New Year’s Day 2004, the Donate Life Rose Parade float has become the world’s most visible campaign to inspire people to become organ and tissue donors. In addition to the 40 million viewers who watch the Rose Parade on TV and along the parade route, hundreds of events are held in cities and towns.

The rose dedication garden is part of the float’s design which will transport 30 riders, whose own journeys as transplant recipients, living donors and family members of deceased organ, eye and tissue donors encompass the highs and lows that life has to offer. The float’s 200-foot-long, heart-shaped pathway will be lined with 72 memorial “floragraph” portraits of deceased donors who are remembered every step of the way.

To register as an organ and tissue donor, do so through the state’s driver’s license renewal process or go to DonateLifeNewEngland.org to register online.