’80s ‘gym-a-thon’ to raise awareness for organ donation

University of Florida transplant physicians are trading in their white lab coats for neon spandex, sweatbands and sunglasses at night.

April is national Donate Life Month, and physicians from the UF Institute of Transplantation are teaming up with local patients and the Junior League of Gainesville to showcase how organ donation and transplantation can help people lead healthy and active lives — ’80s style.

“Rock ’n Run for Life!” is an’80s-themed,” gym-a-thon” from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday, April 17, at Alter Ego Fitness in downtown Gainesville. It is free and open to the public.

The event will feature an open gym with cardio and weight rooms, a sauna and even group fitness classes that keep with the theme: step aerobics and ’80s dance. A cardiologist will be on site offering screenings, and a representative from a local organ procurement organization will be available to answer people’s questions about organ donation.

Melissa Smiles, M.S., the office and public relations manager of the UF renal transplant program, is the president of the Junior League of Gainesville’s new member class. She created the event to bring awareness to the organ and tissue shortage.

“Jon Bon Jovi’s Livin’ On a Prayer is one ’80s hit that, unfortunately, more than 100,000 people relate to each day as they wait for a lifesaving organ,” Smiles said.

A DJ will play ’80s music and attendees are encouraged to wear attire from that decade. The best-dressed participant will be named the “Rock ’n Run Rock Star of the Night.”

“I think the best ’80s music is founded on feelings of freedom and being alive, which are exactly what organ donation and transplantation promote,” Smiles said.

For more information about organ donation or to sign up on Florida’s organ and tissue donor registry, please visit www.DonateLifeFlorida.org.