Bill Stroup has suffered many life-threatening health issues during the past several years. As an organ donor recipient, a stroke and heart attack survivor, he credits Geisinger for saving his life.

In fact, he just celebrated his one year “kidney-versery.” It was on Feb. 17, 2024 that he received a gift of life at Geisinger Medical Center in Danville.

“My story can be described in one word as, ‘extraordinary,’” Bill said. “I can’t thank Geisinger enough. I’ve spent many weeks at Geisinger Lewistown Hospital and know these workers very well. They’ve treated me amazingly – like family.” Bill’s wife Judy, remarked when describing their experiences with Geisinger, “And I’ll use
the word ‘blessed!’”

“They’re our guardian angels,” Judy said. She shared how people prayed with her and even took part in “happy dances” after Bill had successful days in the hospital.

April is National Donate Life Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about organ, eye, and tissue donation. This observance, established by Donate Life America, encourages people to register as donors and honors those who have saved lives through their generous donations.

Geisinger held flag-raising events at campuses across the system in April. At Geisinger Lewistown Hospital (GLH), dozens of employees gathered alongside the Stroups to celebrate, support and bring awareness to organ donation.

Alex Haines, nursing operations manager, Emergency Department, GLH, shared a tribute to Bill and his journey to health and a full life during the event.

“Let’s take a moment to reflect on the significance of this cause,” Alex said. “We honor the selflessness of those who choose to become organ donors, individuals whose legacies live on through the lives they save.”

The Stroups were able to take home a Donate Life flag that was flown at GLH for one month, just after Bill received his new kidney. This practice takes place upon successful completion of organ donations at each Geisinger hospital.

“Bill’s donor has given him the gift of peace and a future,” Alex said.

Bill is an avid woodworker and enjoys being back in the woodshop. He jokes that he has his energy back – the kind he needs to keep up with his wife, who’s lovingly referred to as “Miss Judy.” Judy is a well-known and beloved woman who dedicated 55 years of her life to teaching youth dancers in Mifflin County.

The Stroups who’ve been married for 42 years, were both born and raised in Mifflin County and live in Alfarata. They cherish their 4 children, 11 grandchildren and 4 great- grandchildren.

Bill’s journey underscores the importance of organ donation and the incredible difference it can make in someone’s life. His gratitude towards Geisinger and the staff who treated him like family is a testament to the compassionate care our teams at Geisinger provide.

If you’re interested in learning more about how to become an organ donor or ways to support organ donation awareness, visit geisinger.org/transplant. 

Throughout the month, various events and activities are held to promote the importance of organ donation. For example, Donate Life Living Donor Day was celebrated on April 2, and National Donate Life Blue and Green Day is on April 11. These events help to highlight the critical need for donors and the life-saving impact of organ
donation.

Here are some key statistics about organ donation in the United States:

• Over 103,000 people are currently on the national transplant waiting list
• 17 people die each day waiting for an organ transplant
• Every 8 minutes, another person is added to the transplant waiting list
• 48,000+ transplants were performed in 2024
• Every donor can save up to 8 lives and enhance over 75 more
  Despite the high need, only about 60% of adults are signed up as donors, even
  though 90% support organ donation.

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