For a parent, there is nothing worse than seeing your child sick or injured. And for so many parents, the frustration of not being able to help their children is what hurts the most. But many chronically ill children have been healed, not just by top-notch pediatric care, but through the deep connections they form with their physicians and nurses.

Lisa Smith never knew medicine could come in the form of laughter, but she has experienced firsthand the correlation between children and their doctors, and how the dedication of a medical team can play a critical role in the success of the child’s treatment. Just another testament that children belong in a children’s hospital.

Mallory Smith had heard about Dr. Rene Romero’s dancing talents. So when transplant physician Dr. Romero asked her if there was anything he could do to make her feel better during her long stay in the hospital, Mallory told him he could moonwalk for her when she was released from the hospital.

Nineteen-year-old Mallory’s journey began in July 2006, when she was diagnosed with Wilson’s disease and arrived at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta in total liver failure. Wilson’s disease prevents the liver from releasing copper into the bile as it should. As a result, the liver releases copper directly into the bloodstream—ultimately damaging the kidneys, liver, brain and eyes. The only option for Malloy was a liver transplant. Because of the severity of her condition, she was immediately placed at the top of the transplant waiting list. Mallory received her first lifesaving transplant July 17, 2006.

Mallory had a long road ahead of her, which ultimately led to a second transplant this past September—just over a year after her first one. Mallory’s biggest fans and supporters were the very people performing the lifesaving treatment she needed. Mallory’s closest friends created “Team Mal.” T-shirts were made and worn by the staff. Throughout the last year and a half, Mallory has been challenged time and again—undergoing numerous procedures and tests to monitor her status.

To read more about Mallory's story, please go to www.teammal.org

Currently, more than 2,000 people in Georgia are awaiting a transplant. The truth is, despite continuing advances in medicine and technology, the demand for organs is vastly greater than the number of organ donors. As a result, April is designated National Donate Life month. The goal is to encourage more people about organ donation. Organ donation is all about LIFE!

Chances are at some point in your lifetime, you will know someone who is in need of a transplant. You have the power to make a difference in the life of thousands of people waiting for a transplant. There is no greater gift you can give someone than a second chance at life.

Becoming an organ donor is as simple as:

• Indicating your wishes on your driver's license or state ID
• Signing up on the Georgia Organ Donor Registry
• Discussing your desire to be an organ donor with your loved ones