Organ & Tissue Donation

Organ & Tissue Donation

Charles de Lint, the award winning author wrote, “Every time you do a good deed you shine the light a little farther into the dark. And the thing is, when you're gone that light is going to keep shining on, pushing the shadows back.”

Many of us want to be remembered not only for the person we were, and who we loved, but for the good deeds we’ve done for others. And today, through organ and tissue donation, it’s possible to do very good things for total strangers.

Without doubt, there are many opportunities to give of oneself after death. According to the Musculoskeletal Transplant Foundation, more than 114,000 people are waiting for organ transplants in the United States. Sadly, in 2011, a total of 6,669 patients died while waiting for organ transplants. On average, 18 people died each day because of the shortage of donated organs.

The Musculoskeletal Transplant Foundation is not only at the core of organ transplantation, but also at the core of a growing phenomenon: tissue transplantation. Fast becoming a routine part of patient care in virtually every hospital and in many doctor's offices across the country, tissue transplantation could not occur without the kind and charitable donations of others.

“These tissue transplants often save limbs from being amputated,” shares the website The Gift of a Lifetime,“and give sight to the blind. They also allow recipients to walk without pain, lift up a young child, or perform other routine activities that most people take for granted.”

If becoming an organ and tissue donor appeals to you, or to a loved one; please call us at (315) 673-2017. We will be delighted to explore existing organ donation options, and will do our best to answer any questions or address any concerns you may have about organ and tissue donation.

Who can become a donor?
Anyone who is 18 or older and of sound mind may become a donor when he or she dies. Minors may become donors with a parent's or guardian's consent.

Will my decision interfere with my own health care?
No. Medical personnel must follow strict guidelines before they can pronounce death and remove the donor's organs and tissues. Organ and tissue donors receive the same health care as non-donors.

How will medical personnel know that I am a donor?
Medical personnel will know by your carrying of a "Donor Card". You should distribute copies to your family, doctors, funeral home that holds your pre-arranged services and attorney.

Who pays for the donation procedure?
The organ donation programs, funded through health care, pay for all costs involved in the organ donation and recovery.

How are the organs and tissues distributed?
The distribution of organs is handled by regional organ banks which are linked to a national computer network that allows them to speed the process of matching organ donors and recipients. Tissue distribution is coordinated by various tissue banks throughout the country.

Does my age or medical history matter?
Although most programs do have age restrictions for organs, it should not influence your decision to become a donor. The transplant team will decide at the time of donation whether the organs or tissues are useful for donation. If the organs or tissues can't be transplanted, it is possible that the organs or tissues may be helpful in medical research.

Will I have to change my funeral arrangements?
Within reason, organ donation does not delay funeral arrangements or disfigure the body, so no changes will be needed in your funeral plans. If you plan to donate your body for medical research, you should be sure to arrange all of the details with your local anatomical board.

Can I change my mind about becoming a donor?
Absolutely, simply tear up your donor card. Anyone that you have told about your donation request should be notified of this change. Tell family members, doctors, funeral home, and if you have made arrangements to have your status indicated on your driver's license be sure to contact the driver's license office to have your status changed.

For further information on organ donation, we suggest the following websites:

Donate Life America

Organ Donor.gov

You can also reach out to us to explore the subject of organ donation. We’ve had lots of experience working with organ donors, and the respective donation agencies. Call or email us. We’ll be honored to speak with you.
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