Bill and Leslie Carruth Honored for Their Lifesaving Advocacy in Organ Donation

The 2024 Lisa Schaffner Community Advocate Award by the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) has been awarded to Bill and Leslie Carruth, recognizing their extraordinary efforts in promoting organ donation. Their journey began after the loss of their daughter, Alexandra (Allie), in 2017, leading them to donate her organs and subsequently dedicate their lives to raising awareness and funds for organ donation.

Establishing the Allie Cat Run & Festival in Meridian, Mississippi, the Carruths have not only honored their daughter's memory but also made a tangible impact on their community. The event has raised over $500,000 for community programs and contributed to a 7% increase in the local donor registry, showcasing the profound effect of their advocacy.

UNOS CEO Maureen McBride, Ph.D., commended the Carruths for their courage and dedication, highlighting how their work embodies the spirit of Lisa Schaffner, a fervent advocate for organ donation. The award, renamed in Schaffner's honor in 2021, celebrates individuals who have shown exceptional commitment to the cause.

The Carruths' story is a testament to the power of turning personal grief into a force for good. Their efforts have not only saved lives but also inspired a broader conversation about the importance of organ donation. As the demand for organ donors continues to exceed supply, the role of advocates like the Carruths becomes increasingly critical in bridging the gap and saving more lives.

Their recognition at the 2024 Tree of Life ceremony underscores the lasting legacy of their daughter Allie and the countless lives touched by their advocacy. The Carruths' work serves as a beacon of hope and a call to action for others to consider the life-saving gift of organ donation.