In March, Reggie the Donor Cactus returned to his role as Donate Life Arizona’s mascot after several months on sabbatical. While his co-workers were happy to see him, they noticed a distinct change in his appearance. Most notably, they commented on his size. “He looks like Reggie the Hulk!” exclaimed one volunteer. “I barely recognized him.”

Not all of the rumors were so flattering, however. While some whispered about performance-enhancing drugs, others openly taunted the 10-foot-tall Saguaro. “You look like a pickle!” one heckler shouted. Reggie isn’t fazed by the haters, however. I had the opportunity to sit down with him last week to talk about what inspires him, and get his take on the pickle controversy.

 

Q: How does it feel to be back in action?

A: It’s great to be back! I enjoyed my time off, but I love what I do. My time away really gave me a fresh perspective. I’m more committed than ever to saving and healing lives through organ, eye and tissue donation.

 

Q: You were MIA for almost a year. What were you doing?

A: Well, as you can see, I spent a lot of time at the gym. Honestly, I just needed some “me time.” I traveled, soaked up the sun and read some books. I got to spend a few months backpacking through Europe with my mentor, Dr. Prickle E. Pear. It was great to see the world beyond the Sonoran Desert.

 

Reggie takes Paris.

 
Q: You’re obviously in great shape. Tell me about your workout routine.

A: A body like this takes time. The advice I would give other cacti is be patient. I mean, it took me almost 75 years to grow my first arm! And squats. I do a lot of squats.

 

Q: There are a lot of nasty rumors going around. What would you say to people who call you a pickle?

A: Cacti have pretty thick skin, and we’re used to being poked. Some people are just a little prickly. I don’t let it get to me. But knowledge is power! That’s why I created the handy diagram, below.

Reggie is NOT a pickle.

 

Q: Most cacti are content to spend their entire lives sunbathing. What inspired you to become a mascot?

A: Ever since I was a little sprout, I knew that I was meant for something more. In college, I took a class on organ, eye and tissue donation. Did you know there are more than 2,300 people in Arizona waiting for a lifesaving organ transplant? That’s when I joined the Donate Life Arizona team. As a mascot, I encourage people to register as donors. It feels good to know my work is saving lives!

 

Reggie was a cute little sprout.

Q: You seem to like your privacy. I haven’t seen you on the cover of People Magazine yet! What advice would you give your fans who want to learn more about you?

A: I’d love to be your friend on Facebook! Add me at https://www.facebook.com/registerwithreggie to get the inside scoop on all things Reggie.

 

Ouch!