Donating an organ is a powerful way to save a life. In the United States alone, more than 100,000 patients are currently waiting for organ transplants. Many of them will die waiting, because of the severe shortage of organs. The number of people who need transplants is continuing to rise faster than the number of available donors. But organ donation offers significant benefits to donors willing to consider giving the gift of life.
Why Help?
People whose organs have failed can return to active and productive lives once more if they receive successful transplants for a variety of organs, including heart, lung, liver, kidney, pancreas and intestine. If you become a living donor, knowing that you've made that miracle possible for someone can give you a strong sense of satisfaction. If you declare your intention to donate your organs after your death, your family can experience the comfort that comes from seeing something good come out of their grief.
How to Help as a Living Donor
You have the power to help people as a living donor by giving one of your kidneys or a portion of your liver, lung, pancreas or intestine to those in need. Before you donate, you'll go through a series of tests to determine whether you can donate (most healthy adults can) and to match your organ's blood and tissue type to patients who need a compatible organ.
If you personally know someone who's waiting for an organ, you can contact the transplant center handling the person's case to start the testing process. Then you can designate your organ for that particular person. But you can also help someone you don't yet know by registering with your local transplant center as an anonymous donor. Either way, you can enjoy the satisfaction of knowing that your generosity will save lives!
How to Help as a Deceased Donor
You can give patients the gift of life after your own death as a deceased organ donor. The same deceased donor can help many different people in need, because organs are distributed to a variety of individuals. Start by letting your family and friends know of your intentions before a crisis occurs. They can act as your advocates to make sure that your wishes are carried out if you should ever become brain-dead. Then sign a donor card to carry with you. As soon as you can, register to become an organ donor through your state's donor registry and designate your decision on your driver's license when you obtain or renew it.
