The Rocky Mountain region connects diverse communities across vast distances and uniquely mirrors the strength of its residents. The rugged endurance of the Rocky Mountains is a perfect representation of our communities known for helping and supporting one another in the face of adversity with strength, determination, and compassion. 

The collective strength and generosity of our region were evident in 2023 and translated into remarkable results. Colorado and Wyoming saw a ninth consecutive year of growth and achieved another record-setting year by saving and healing more lives than ever before. The generosity of 307 heroic organ donors from across Colorado and Wyoming resulted in 918 organ transplants, a 10.6% increase over 2022. In addition to the lives saved through organ donation, there was also a 3.9% increase in tissue recovered for transplantation, saving and healing the lives of thousands of others in need. 

We also witnessed another year of unparalleled community support, which helped to raise awareness for organ and tissue donation, and ultimately inspired residents to sign up to save a life by joining the organ and tissue donor registry. The Wyoming community successfully passed a bill bringing “Donate Life” specialty license plates to the state for the first time. Colorado and Wyoming governors made their state one of the nation's first two statewide Donate Life Communities. Our National Donate Life Month celebrations lit up buildings across Colorado and Wyoming in blue and green, and local and state governments made proclamations recognizing the lifesaving and healing cause. Our signature Donor Dash and Donor Family Tribute events brought hundreds of people together to honor loved ones and share stories of courage, generosity, and hope. 

Honoring our steadfast commitment to maximizing the gift of life, Donor Alliance joined the Matador Uncrewed Aerial System Consortium in 2023 to explore the hope and possibility of utilizing advanced drone technology to help honor donors’ gifts in rural communities by quickly transporting lifesaving organs across long distances by drone. We also added two recovery surgeons, allowing our organization to further increase opportunities for organ and tissue donation while minimizing the impact organ and tissue recovery can have on hospitals.  

As we reflect on the previous year, we are reminded that none of this would be possible without the tremendous generosity of our heroic donors and their families as well as the support of our residents, staff, volunteers, and partners. Although the peaks we climb may change, the unwavering support of our community is what fuels our mission and makes hope a reality for hundreds of families each year. 

With deepest gratitude,