Organ and tissue transplantation is one of the most remarkable success stories in modern medicine. For thousands of people suffering from organ failure or tissue damage, a transplant is the only hope for survival or a return to a healthy life. However, the need for donated organs continues to outpace the supply.

Common Questions About Donation

Who can donate? People of all ages and medical histories should consider themselves potential donors. Your medical condition at the time of death determines what can be shared.

Will it affect my medical care? No. The medical team treating you is completely separate from the transplant team. Organ recovery only occurs after death is legally declared and all life-saving efforts are exhausted.

Are there costs? There is no cost to the donor's family or estate for the organ or tissue recovery process.

What can be donated? Life-saving organs include the heart, kidneys, pancreas, lungs, liver, and intestines. Tissues include eyes, skin, bone, heart valves, and tendons.

The Importance of the "National List"

Over 100,000 Americans are on the national transplant waiting list. Patients are matched based on blood type, medical urgency, and genetic markers. Because compatible blood types and tissue markers are more common within ethnic groups, a diverse donor pool is essential to ensuring everyone on the list has a fair chance at a match.

How to Share Your Decision

While signing a donor card or indicating your status on a driver's license is a vital legal step, talking to your family is equally important. In many states, the family's consent is sought at the time of death; knowing your wishes beforehand prevents uncertainty during a time of grief.