Innovative Birth Tissue Donation Program Launched in Rural Nevada
WINNEMUCCA, Nev. (April 28, 2025) — In a groundbreaking initiative, Donor Network West has partnered with Humboldt General Hospital to introduce the first birth tissue donation program in rural Nevada. This initiative allows parents to donate the placenta and umbilical cord after childbirth, instead of discarding these valuable tissues.
Program Overview
The program, aimed at giving expecting parents an option to contribute to health advancements, is available to those undergoing both vaginal and cesarean deliveries. As the only federally designated organ procurement organization in northern Nevada, Donor Network West is committed to ensuring the safety and health of both parents and babies during this donation process.
“This collaboration with Humboldt General exemplifies our appreciation for healthcare community partnerships,” stated Matt Graves, vice president of donor operations for northern Nevada at Donor Network West. “The birth tissue donation program allows parents to make a profound impact by aiding others in need of essential medical treatments.”
Importance of Tissue Donation
Tissue donation plays a crucial role in regenerative medicine. One in every 20 individuals in the United States requires a tissue transplant annually due to various injuries, illnesses, or surgical needs. The tissues collected from birth can ultimately assist in:
- Treating painful wounds and burns
- Facilitating reconstructive surgeries
- Performing spinal procedures to alleviate discomfort caused by scar tissue
Remarkably, a single placenta can yield up to 100 tissue grafts for those in need, improving countless lives through healing and scientific research.
Supporting Families and Physicians
Sheri Garland, inpatient nursing director at Humboldt General Hospital, commented, “This initiative offers a meaningful opportunity for families to engage in a generous act as their child enters the world.” The program aims to transform a momentous occasion—birth—into a life-giving decision for others.
Educational Efforts
Donor Network West actively educates and supports parents through the donation process. Their dedicated team assists families who wish to participate, providing all necessary information and support tailored to individual needs. The donation occurs post-delivery, ensuring it does not interfere with the planned birth experience.
In addition to Humboldt General, Donor Network West has expanded its efforts by collaborating with Carson Tahoe Health to extend the availability of this program to additional families in Nevada.
About Donor Network West
Founded in 1987, Donor Network West is a certified and accredited organization focused on saving lives through organ and tissue donation for transplantation and research. Serving 45 counties in northern California and northern Nevada, it is recognized by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services and is a member of the Organ Donation Alliance. For further details, visit Donor Network West and follow on social media at @mydnwest.