Northwest Region tragically lost one of its own this past weekend in a non-competition related car accident.

Chris "Superman" Kmetz was a loving husband and father of two small children. In addition to being a well-liked and active member of our local region, Chris had an amazing spirit and capacity for love and laughter - they were his superpowers. You couldn't spend time with Chris without laughing with him, and in some cases at him. Chris was a former U.S. Marine and the biggest Superman fan you will ever meet. And in true superhero fashion, on the day he passed away, Chris went above and beyond to save two lives, and benefit countless others in the coming days, through the gift of himself through organ donation.

His wife Jackie is hoping to use his final act to help save even more lives by raising awareness of organ donation. Fewer than 1% of people nationwide are organ donors. To put a number on it, last year in the 5 state region that includes WA, there were a total of 197 donors. Currently there are 123,328 people waiting for life saving organs. You can register to become a donor by indicating it on your drivers license or by registering with the US Depth of Health and human services at http://www.organdonor.gov/index.html

Those wanting more information about Chris or ways to help his family can find more information on the following page setup by northwest region members: http://www.gofundme.com/nep5bc

Be a superhero like Chris. Elect to be an organ donor.