Message from COTA President Rick Lofgren

Dear Friend,

As we approach the crisp days of fall, and as school resumes in small towns and large cities nationwide, I am reminded of new beginnings for our country’s children and families. My wife is a teacher, and I know how much she looks forward to greeting her new students at the start of each school year … and to the new hopes and dreams each student brings through her classroom door.

Her feelings of hope mirror ours here at the Children’s Organ Transplant Association (COTA) as we meet, and welcome, new patients, families, volunteers and supporters to COTA’s family. Perhaps you have heard, or read, that COTA is Giving Hope … Making Miracles. For us, it is not just a slogan -- it is how COTA’s team operates each day. Please allow me to share one COTA family’s extremely meaningful words:

“In the midst of learning the most devastating news of our lives, we also learned about COTA. Fundraising? How does one fundraise when one cannot even breathe? COTA helped us breathe by teaching our friends and family how to spread the word about the financial part of a transplant. COTA gave us hope.”

Robert and Ana Anselmo, Parents of Savannah

“Giving Hope … Making Miracles” This phrase truly highlights the work COTA does on behalf of transplant families who desperately need the support we receive from friends like you. My thanks goes out to each of COTA’s Miracle Makers who have helped us give hope and make miracles in all corners of this country.

As we face trials and barriers (from numerous medical hurdles to emotional strain) on behalf of our patients -- it is heartwarming to read messages like the one from the Anselmos all because of COTA Miracle Makers like you. The hope you provide helps to make miracles for those families who are unable, for whatever reason, to help themselves.

Thank you,

Rick Lofgren, CFRE
President, Children's Organ Transplant Association (COTA)

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