The Kansas City Public Library Truman Forum Auditorium filled with high school students from all over the Kansas area for The Gift of Life rally on Thursday, Oct. 30. Health students from Mill Valley had the opportunity to sign up and then were randomly selected by their teacher to go on the trip.

Images of deformed bodies, injuries and soldiers in war displayed across a projection screen as guest speaker from Wake Forest School of Medicine Joan F. Schanck informed the audience of organ donation. She covered various topics dealing with organ donation and explained Wake Forest’s goals.

“Our mission is to improve patients’ lives by developing regenerative medicine therapies and support technologies,” Schanck said.

The rally had many guest speakers that not only informed the students on organ donation but also shared personal stories of organ donation and its effects on their lives as well.

During a break students had the opportunity break into groups and create a 30 second song dealing with organ donation. Mill Valley’s group did a rendition of “Don’t Stop Believin’” by Journey and replaced lyrics with new ones that pertained to organs. Sophomore Sophie Griffin enjoyed the trip.

“I feel really blessed,” Griffin said. “It’s nice to see people’s experiences.”