Our Mission & History

Founder Lawrence F. McManus, MD: Larry McManus, was an orthopedic surgeon, a transplant patient, an activist, and ultimately, the visionary of Gift of Life Trust Fund, the not-for-profit organization promoting organ and tissue donation whose name was changed to Donate Life South Carolina (DLSC) during 2006 in keeping with the national Donate Life America branding effort.

It Was Personal

By 1989, Larry’s liver had failed. He was told he could expect 12 to 18 months of life without treatment – and the only treatment and chance for long-term survival was a liver transplant. In May 1991, Larry was placed on the national waiting list to receive a liver. After waiting 180 days he received a donor organ, the “Gift of Life.”

Experience into Action

As a result of their experiences, Larry and his wife, Kitty, founded Donate Life South Carolina (DLSC), formerly known as the Gift of Life Trust Fund (GLTF). The organization’s mission was to educate South Carolinians about the importance of becoming organ and tissue donors. The couple’s challenges in navigating the transplant process inspired them to include a patient assistance component later.

Spreading the Message

The passing of Act 262 officially established Donate Life South Carolina in 1996. Dr. McManus died June 19, 2001, but his legacy continues through the work of the DLSC staff, Board, and his wife, Kitty McManus. The last years of his life were filled with accomplishments and gratitude for the donors who gave him the gift that enabled him to achieve great things during his time here. In his words, “What greater act of love and charity can one show than by becoming an organ and tissue donor? I thank my donors every day for their generosity.”

A message from Tracy Moore

CEO / Executive Director of Donate Life SC

Greetings, On behalf of Donate Life South Carolina, I would like to welcome you to our website! I hope you find it both inspirational and educational as you look for answers to your questions regarding your decision to become an organ, eye and tissue donor. I invite you to watch the videos and read the compelling stories of South Carolinians and their experience with sharing and/or receiving the precious “Gift of Life.” I also encourage you to revisit our site often for current information on news and upcoming Donate Life events! Most importantly, I urge you to REGISTER as a LIFE donor before leaving this website. Our online registration is secure and takes only a few minutes to complete. YOU can make a difference! Already on the Donate Life South Carolina Donor Registry? Thank you! If you are interested in volunteering or learning of other ways you can help, check out the Do More section. I am incredibly privileged to be working with the Donate Life “family” in South Carolina. I have been a part of this life-saving cause since 2008, and I am still in awe of the dedication and commitment I witness each day by our many volunteers, partnerships, the board of directors, and the business community. Each compelled to work together, fulfilling our vision…” that all individuals who are awaiting a transplant, receive a second chance at life.”

Sincerely,

Tracy Moore
CEO/Executive Director
Donate Life South Carolina

About Donate Life SC

Donate Life South Carolina, a state-authorized nonprofit 501 (c)3 organization, is solely responsible for managing the organ, eye and tissue donor registry. We are dedicated to saving the lives of thousands of South Carolinians awaiting life-saving transplants.

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