Hosted by Chris Klug Foundation, Wakeboard Northwest, and Northwest Riders
PORTLAND OREGON: The Chris Klug Foundation (CKF), Northwest Riders and Wakeboard Northwest are pleased to announce the “Wakeboard Demo and Donor Awareness Celebration”, taking place this Friday, September 19.
Part-time Central Oregon local, liver transplant recipient and Olympic Medalist snowboarder Chris Klug, together with local Portland resident and kidney transplant recipient Bryan Myss, will be visiting OHSU September 19 from 9 am until Noon to meet with transplant patients and encourage them as they go through the transplant process.
“I received the gift of life, my life-saving kidney transplant, 21 years ago as a result of a young woman choosing to become an organ + tissue donor and to make her wishes be known to her family. I give thanks to her daily for the life I have ahead everyday I wake up, yet remember the sacrifice she made”, shares Bryan Myss. ”Daily, I attempt to honor her in the way I live, the way I serve, and by the legacy I leave behind as a result of her giving me a second chance at life. Collaborating with the Chris Klug Foundation and Chris Klug himself is a privilege. He is an inspiration to me, and those in the transplant community alike. His vision to serve individuals, families, and the transplant community by sharing the message of organ + tissue donation is absolutely contagious and fall completely into my calling for this life. It is our mutual goal as well to build community and friendships with those that have endured or are currently enduring similar medical circumstances - to meet them where they are... and walk with them thru the journey pre or post transplantation.”
The afternoon portion of the event will take place at Willamette Park (next to the boat launch) from 2-6pm. Northwest Riders professionals Brent Starr and Brandon Robins will provide free instruction and rider demos. Participants can wakeboard, wake surf or enjoy a free ride in the boat with fellow transplant individuals and their families. It’s an opportunity to promote the life-saving message of organ and tissue donation and share transplant experiences together. “I’m excited about this event and look forward to celebrating life together,” says Chris Klug.
Live Music and free snacks and drinks will be provided by OHSU. CKF and Donate Life Northwest will be on-hand with donation info and materials.
