Mercy Hospital in Downtown Bakersfield is joining more than 20 other facilities across Southern California in raising a “Donate Life” flag to inspire people to sign up as organ donors.

Monday’s ceremony was attended by over a dozen people including donors and their families. Cathy Vochoska gave her son a kidney five years ago, and hopes the flag busts myths that keep people from giving. Hospital CEO Bruce Peters came out because a tissue donation over a year ago saved his life.

Another flag was raised outside Mercy Southwest later in the day. The flags will be flying throughout the month of April.