FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT:

August 25, 2004

Penelope Campbell

Secretary of State White Joins City Clerk Laski
to Increase Organ Donor Participation Illinois

CHICAGO — Illinois Secretary of State Jesse White reported today that nearly 8,000 people have signed up to become organ and tissue donors this year thanks to the efforts of City Clerk James J. Laski.

Every year, when the city mails sticker renewal applications to Chicago motorists, Laski includes cards asking for residents' participation in the Illinois organ and tissue donor program.

"I want to thank City Clerk Laski for his efforts to increase the number of organ donors in Illinois," said White. "Although Illinois has the largest number of registered donors in the nation with over 6 million, about 300 people die each year waiting for an organ."

The Illinois organ and tissue donor card partnership between Laski and White started four years ago when the Walter Payton organ donor city sticker was offered. This partnership is an ongoing effort between Laski and White to encourage Chicago residents to sign up to become organ donors. To date, Laski has submitted approximately 50,000 such cards to White's office.

"Secretary of State Jesse White has done a tremendous job increasing public awareness about the need for organ donors in Illinois," stated Laski. "I am proud to have joined Secretary of State White in his efforts over the last four years by including donor registration inserts into the annual vehicle sticker renewal mailing. Each year, Chicagoans respond to the critical need for donors by signing up to give others a second chance at life," added Laski.

In Illinois, there are currently 5,000 people in need of an organ. One donor can help to save or enhance the lives of up to 25 people.

Anyone can become an organ donor by:

1. Signing the organ/tissue donor portion on the back of your Illinois driver's license or ID card directly on the plastic with a ballpoint pen. Two people, preferably family members, should sign as witnesses.

2. Joining the Organ/Tissue Donor Registry. When you visit a Driver Services facility, you will be asked if you want to sign the back of your driver's license and join the Registry. You also can join the Registry by filling out an organ donor card and mailing it to this office, by calling 1-800-210-2106 or by visiting the Illinois Secretary of State's Web site at www.cyberdriveillinois.com.

3. Telling your family. Organ and tissue donation will not take place without permission from the donor's family.