Become a Donor

If you or someone close to you needed an organ transplant to live, who would donate the organ?

That's a question thousands of area men, women and children are waiting to have answered. For most, a second chance at life depends on special people who pledge to be organ and tissue donors.

Unfortunately, not enough people have signed organ donor cards or have discussed their wishes with their family members and friends. As a result, there is a critical shortage of organs for transplant and thousands of people die each year waiting for transplants.

However, you can help make the difference. Talk to your loved ones about organ donation. Sign a donor card and share the information with your friends.

There are few opportunities in life to do something as special or heroic as saving someone else's life. Organ and tissue donation is one of those opportunities.

SOME OF THE MOST COMMONLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT ORGAN AND TISSUE DONATION

Are there age limits to being a donor?
Virtually any newborn to 75 years of age could be considered for organ and tissue donation. Suitability is determined at the donor's time of death.

What organs and tissues can be donated?
The heart, kidney, liver, lungs and pancreas, as well as corneas, bone, heart valves and skin are some of the organs and tissues that can be donated to help others.

Is organ donation against my religion?
All major organized religions support organ and tissue donation to save lives.

Who receives donated organs and how is it determined?
There are more than 3,200 men, women and children in the region - 62,000 nationally - awaiting organ transplants. Organs are distributed to patients through a regional and national computer registry based on medical need, time on the waiting list and the best medical match.

Does being a donor hinder funeral arrangements?
The recovery of organs and tissues is carried out in an operating room using standard surgical procedures. The donation does not delay funeral arrangements nor does it prevent a normal viewing.

Do I have to register to be an organ donor?
There is no registry. You must tell your family so that they carry out your wishes in the event of your death. Sign and carry the donor card, and include a statement about your donation in your living will. You may also indicate your decision on your drivers license. Be sure to discuss your decision with your family!

How do I pledge the gift of life?

Sign and carry an organ donor card (valid in every state in the U.S.)
Discuss your wishes with your family.
Indicate your decision on your drivers license.

Who do I call for more information?
For more information, contact the Gift of Life Donor Program, the regional organ and tissue donor program, at 1-888-DONORS1 or visit them on-line at www.donors1.org. The program is the region's non-profit organ and tissue donor program, serves as the link between organ and tissue donors and those awaiting life-saving transplants.

Need Help? Call 610-402-CARE (8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m., Monday-Friday) to talk to nurses and other experts who can help you find a doctor and more.

This page last updated 10/22/08 11:47 AM

Transplant/Organ Donation

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