ST. LOUIS - Former Saint Louis University guard Larry Hughes will be recognized at halftime of Wednesday's game vs. Eastern Illinois as the recipient of the Donate Life Champion Award, given in recognition of his support of organ, tissue and eye donation.

Hughes has a personal connection to organ and tissue donation. His brother, Justin, received a heart transplant at age 11 from Dana Spencer. He donated his organs when he passed away at the age of 20. Presenting Hughes with the award is Spencer's family, as well as representatives from Mid-America Transplant Services.

Organ donation also holds importance on the Eastern Illinois sideline. Former Billiken coach Charlie Spoonhour, father of EIU head coach Jay Spoonhour, was a lung transplant recipient and strong promoter of organ donation. 

Fans attending Wednesday's game will have the opportunity to sign up to become an organ donor, or gather information on the subject. They may do so in the concourse behind the student section.

In its inaugural year, the Donate Life Champion Award is given to select members of the athletic community from across the country who have inspired others to give the gifts of life, sight and mobility.