2000 DEDICATION TO PAUL MCVETTY

Through Organs 'R' Us, The Relay promotes awareness about the critical shortage of organ donors. The transfer of the baton from runner to runner symbolizes the transfer of an organ from donor to recipient. The 1997 and 1998 Relays were dedicated to three-year-old Delaney Corbitt who waited since birth for a kidney transplant. We dedicate the 1999 and 2000 Relays to our friend and Organs 'R' Us founding member, Paul McVetty, who has waited for a liver transplant for almost four years.

PAUL'S STORY
After developing weakness in 1992, Paul was diagnosed with Hepatitis C, which infects more that five million Americans. Over the next four years, the virus destroyed Paul's liver. Since the virus can incubate for 25 years, it is likely that Paul became infected while using drugs as a teenager. In addition to being drug free for over 20 years, Paul has worked with others struggling to lead healthy lives as a counselor for teenagers in drug rehabilitation programs and supporting AIDS patients through the Shanti Project. In December 1999, Paul and his wife Minda adopted beautiful baby Lilly, intensifying Paul's need for a life saving transplant.

A GIANT STEP FOR DONATION
As an All-American college pitcher, Lori Gardner, wife of San Francisco Giants pitcher Mark Gardner, did not know that her athletic training would undergo a dramatic change. After being diagnosed with liver cancer, Lori developed endurance unfamiliar to most athletes as she trains on a daily basis to face a life threatening illness. "Although I must endure another major surgery, the hardest part is waiting for a donor," Lori said as she prepared for her second transplant.

During 20 hours of surgery in July 2000, Lori received her second liver. "I want to show that the Giants are behind Organs 'R' Us," Lori said as she and Mark prepare to promote the importance of organ donation during The Relay.

ORGANS 'R' US SUCCEEDS
by generating $5 million dollars in publicity regarding donation. From 1997-2000, Captain Kelly Olmo (thirteen) led the Channel 5 Organs 'R' Us Kiddie Pede to victory in the Bay to Breakers. Paul, Lori, and organ recipients Miranda Ashland, Samantha Blair, Joe Gerigk, Jerome Shelton, and others represent 70,000 people in the US waiting for transplants. Sadly, of those waiting, half will die before an organ becomes available.

WHAT CAN YOU DO?
Since half of the commitments to donate organs were rescinded by family members after a potential donor's untimely passing, education and family discussions are necessary to solve this medical crisis. Please help Organs 'R' Us relay the message on donation.

Join Organs 'R' Us sponsors Providian Financial, Channel 5, SangStat, Anomaly Design, UPS and Nordstrom in promoting donation by seeking per mile pledges. Ask your company to match your entry fee with a tax deductible donation.

During the race, cheer for SangStat Grafters/Organs 'R' Us runners and join emcee Nancy Fox, Lori and Mark Gardner, Sallee D'Anna and others supporting Paul and those who wait. Paul is quick to offer kind words and a big hug. Please save a life by considering donation and communicating your wishes to your family. In the long run, organ donation saves lives.