With contributions originating from all 50 states, more than two-thirds of the individuals making a contribution "in honor of Sarah Palin" are first-time Planned Parenthood donors.

"The response to this viral e-mail has been phenomenal, said Cecile Richards, president of the Planned Parenthood Action Fund. "I want to personally thank the tens of thousands of individuals who responded. As a trusted health care advocate for millions of women across America, Planned Parenthood knows firsthand the importance of promoting and protecting women's health and well-being."

The viral e-mail did not originate with Planned Parenthood, and the origins of the email remain unknown. The e-mail asks individuals who are unhappy with Gov. Palin's selection as a vice-presidential candidate to donate to Planned Parenthood. The Planned Parenthood website includes a standard webpage where individuals can make a contribution in honor of a person of their choosing.

About the Planned Parenthood Action Fund

As a separate, political incorporated arm of Planned Parenthood of North Texas, Inc., the Action Fund educates elected officials, as well as conducts issue advocacy and get-out-the vote campaigns.

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