Golden K Chair Candy Buchcuski, who spoke at Golden K about what is involved in becoming an organ donor, and Golden K member Gary Proudfit. (Richard Ochoa photo)

KINGSFORD — Monday mornings hold several feelings for young and old alike. The Golden K seniors prepare for their usual meeting looking forward to beginning their week, as younger people approach it with apprehension to start another work week or school days full of unknowns.

Chair Candy Buchcuski began the Golden K meeting with the ringing of the bell and opening ceremonies. Alyce Derwinski delivered her list of songs to her able assistant Richard Ochoa, settled herself at the piano and music filled the room.

The Welcome Song was sung for Shirley Winters, visiting from Stevens Point, Wis.; and Kendra Trulock and Susan Lucas, working together for RSVP.

Sarah Gospodarek won the 50-50 drawing and Happy Dollars included Paul Larson, who was glad to dig his way out of the snow to travel from Hermansville; Kathy Jo Anderson was happy to spend extra time with her grandson; and Ron Jouppi was happy spending time with daughter Shirley. Happy Birthday wishes to Mary Swope.

Buchcuski’s Thought for the Day, “Invest your time wisely, it’s the only resource you cannot replace.” She also became the speaker for the day and updated the club on being an organ donor.

The Gift of Life is the state’s federally designated organ procurement organization — OPO — providing services necessary for organ and tissue donation. Based out of Ann Arbor, they are a non-profit full Donor Care Center and sterile facility. The process of organ, eye and tissue donation is strictly regulated for patient safety. Donors and their families are treated with the respect.

Patients must meet the clinical criteria. The hospital contacts the local OPO, which in turn will determine medical stability. The family is cared for and kept informed of the process.

The waiting list for various donor needs is extensive. There are sensitive time limits on donations, proper delivery requirements and extended recovery times. All issues are handled by highly trained medical professionals.

To become a donor, start by being fully informed of the process. Decide and put the request on your driver’s license. Let your friends and relatives know you wish to be a donor.

Buchcuski became a donor when her sister was terminally ill. She shared learning that families endure stress at critical times for their love ones. Therefore, deciding to be a donor in one’s own time eases the decision and facilitates the process at a difficult time.

Donating organs, eyes, and tissues can be transplanted into someone else, thereby, giving a “new” life to another who may have been living on a hope and a prayer.

One of the Golden K seniors shared their experience having had a kidney transplant 10 years ago, and Buchcuski related a story of a 100-year-old who gave a liver to a 70-year-old. When all lifesaving efforts are exhausted, medical experts will notify the family of the options and the decision of being a donor is made. If the family says “no,” the case is closed. If the family says “yes,” the process continues.

There are many myths about the gift of donating, which can be counteracted with information found by contacting GiftOfLifeMichigan.org

Golden K will meet at 10 a.m. Monday at First Presbyterian Church in Kingsford.

Keeping informed on life and communities activities and enjoying the local talent of our neighbors is a big part in the life of the Golden K. Especially when it all culminates three times a year with parties for the those students living with special needs. Everyone is encouraged to join in.