Fort Worth — With gratitude and pride, Valencia Clay shared her journey from more than a decade on dialysis to receiving a life-changing kidney transplant at Medical City Fort Worth. She spoke during a ceremony where the hospital unveiled a new wall of honor recognizing patients whose final act was organ donation.
After years of testing and preparation, Clay was placed on the transplant list and received her second chance at life from a deceased organ donor in 2015. Now, as both a transplant recipient and registered donor, she advocates for organ donation and encourages others to give the gift of life.
“Today it’s me, but at any moment it could be you,” Clay says. “Being able to share my story and inspire others to become donors is truly a privilege.”
The event was part of National Donate Life Month and honored organ donors and their families for their extraordinary generosity. Held in the neuro intensive care (NSICU) and medical-surgical intensive care units (MSICU), it brought together hospital leaders, caregivers and patients to recognize those who gave the gift of life.
The “Tree of Life” display features a striking design with engraved leaves, each bearing the name of an organ donor. At its center, a heart-shaped emblem reads “I Am Hope,” symbolizing the courage and compassion behind every gift. This space offers families and caregivers a place to pause, reflect and recognize the enduring impact of these decisions.
“Advancing care means honoring those who make it possible,” says John Hoover, CEO of Medical City Fort Worth. “The Tree of Life is a symbol of our commitment to compassionate care and reminds us that every donation carries forward hope and healing for patients and families across generations.”
Medical City Fort Worth performs pancreas and kidney transplantation. According to the latest data from the Scientific Registry of Transplant Recipients (SRTR), the hospital is among the top-ranked in Texas for shortest wait time to receive a deceased kidney donor transplant.
The Tree of Life also includes information on organ donation and a QR code linking to resources for those who wish to learn more or register as donors. Learn more about organ donation and transplant services at Medical City Fort Worth.