Green Shirt Day 2026 campaign launched in Winnipeg, Manitoba
February 18, 2026 (WINNIPEG, MB) – Green Shirt Day, Canada’s annual day to honour organ donors and celebrate the life-saving impact of organ and tissue donation, will take place on April 7, 2026, under the theme “One Decision Can Create a Lasting Ripple Effect.” On that day, Canadians from coast to coast will wear green in tribute to organ donors and in recognition of the profound difference organ and tissue donation makes in the lives of recipients and their families. This year’s theme reminds us that a single choice has the power to change countless lives.
Green Shirt Day was inspired by the legacy of Logan Boulet, the Humboldt Broncos defenceman whose decision to register as an organ donor saved six lives following the tragic 2018 bus crash involving the Humboldt Broncos. Logan’s selfless choice sparked what became known nationwide as the “Logan Boulet Effect,” leading to record-breaking numbers of Canadians registering as organ donors.
His story continues to demonstrate how one act of compassion can ripple outward — reaching families, strengthening communities, and offering hope where it’s needed most.
Official Launch in Manitoba: Dropping the Puck on 2026
An incredible team assembled in Winnipeg, Manitoba to officially drop the puck on #GreenShirtDay 2026 — coordinated by Transplant Manitoba — and the energy was electric.
Hosted by Uzoma Asagwara, Minister of Health, Seniors and Long-Term Care, and emceed by Mike Moyes, Minister of Environment and Climate Change, the Rotunda at the Manitoba Legislative Building was filled with donor families, living donors, and transplant recipients — all connected by a common bond: the generous act of organ donation.
Toby and Bernadine Boulet spoke about the courage and compassion behind Logan’s decision to say yes to organ donation and how the #LoganBouletEffect continues to ripple across the country years after the devastating crash.
“Our hope is that Logan’s story continues to inspire Canadians to have these important conversations,” said Toby Boulet. “If one family talks about organ donation because of Green Shirt Day, that conversation alone could save lives.”
The media event was also an opportunity to introduce Candace Sernowsky — a living kidney donor and the creator of the 2026 Green Shirt Day logo — which looked terrific on Mick E. Moose, mascot of the Winnipeg Jets.
“Logan Boulet’s legacy reminds us that one courageous choice can create a ripple felt across communities. This year, I’m especially inspired that the Green Shirt Day design comes from a Manitoban, Candace Sernowsky, whose own story of giving demonstrates how generosity can transform lives,” said Minister Asagwara. “Manitobans know the power of community, and by registering as organ donors, we can each honour Logan’s spirit while bringing hope and life to families across our province and beyond.”
Medical leaders also shared powerful insights into the real-life impact of donation and transplantation. Dr. Julie Ho, Medical Director of Transplant Manitoba, reflected on the joy of delivering life-changing news.
“For me, one of the most rewarding parts of my job is calling someone who has been waiting for a kidney transplant, often for many years, with the news that we have a match for them. To see them come off dialysis after transplant — there is nothing better,” explained Dr. Ho.
Dr. Owen Mooney, Medical Director of Gift of Life, underscored the importance of family conversations — just as Logan had done.
“As an intensive care physician, I am keenly aware of how just rare, difficult and beautiful the gift of organ donation is. I am also aware of how families can struggle when there is uncertainty regarding donation.”
Their message was clear: registration matters — but conversation matters just as much.
A Powerful 2026 Design Rooted in Manitoba
This year’s campaign proudly features the winning artwork from the Green Shirt Day National Logo Design Contest, created by Candace Sernowsky of Lorette West, Manitoba.
Her design captures the spirit of movement and legacy through powerful symbols:
- A flying puck
- Crossed hockey sticks
- A green organ donation ribbon
- Logan’s number 27
Together, these elements reflect hope, action, and the enduring ripple Logan’s decision continues to create.
Candace’s connection to organ donation is deeply personal. On September 29, 2025, she donated her left kidney through the Kidney Paired Donation Program in Vancouver. When she discovered she could not directly donate to her cousin due to an antibody mismatch, she chose to enter the paired donation program administered by Canadian Blood Services — a life-changing chain of
donations that allows multiple people to receive transplants.
“I started testing back in February 2024 and was finally able to help my cousin receive a kidney by donating to an unknown person,” says Sernowsky. “My hope is to inspire others to come forward and consider registering as organ donors. This process offers someone a better life — and knowing you can make that happen through organ donation makes it all worth it.”
Her generosity perfectly embodies this year’s theme: one decision can indeed create a lasting ripple effect.
A Call to Action for All Canadians
Today, more than 4,000 Canadians are waiting for a life-saving transplant. Tragically, approximately 250 people die each year while waiting.
Green Shirt Day 2026 aims to inspire Canadians not only to register their donation decision but also to talk to four more people about it. Registration is critical — but so is conversation.
Families need to know your wishes.
The Boulet family, the Canadian Transplant Association, Canadian Blood Services, The Kidney Foundation of Canada, and Canada’s organ and tissue donation community are urging Canadians in every province and territory to:
- Register as organ and tissue donors through their provincial or territorial registry.
- Talk to family and friends about their donation wishes.
- Wear green on April 7 and share messages of hope and awareness.
Businesses, schools, and sports teams are also encouraged to host activations — whether in workplaces, classrooms, or at game-day events — to spark meaningful conversations about organ donation.
Wear Green. Spark Conversations. Create Ripples.
Green Shirt Day shirts are now available, with proceeds supporting Green Shirt Day initiatives, the Canadian Transplant Association, and the Logan Boulet Endowment Fund.
Every shirt worn is more than a symbol. It’s a conversation starter. It’s a statement of hope. It’s a visible reminder that one decision can change lives. Order today.
To learn more and access campaign resources, visit https://greenshirtday.ca/be-inspired/.
Together, we can ensure Logan’s legacy continues to ripple across Canada — bringing life, hope, and healing to families nationwide. 💚
Media Contact
Green Shirt Day
For a media interview with the Boulet Family please contact via:
Toby Boulet
Brenda Brown, President
Canadian Transplant Association
604-807-8282
Roberta Koscielny, Communications
Transplant Manitoba
204-787-1897
Canadian Blood Services Media Line
1-877-709-7773 | media@blood.ca
Michelle Hofer, Manager, Communications and Community Development
The Kidney Foundation of Canada, Southern Alberta Branch
587-333-4349
michelle.hofer@kidney.ca
