Many people may want to consider donating their organs but don’t have the information they need to make the appropriate decision. That’s why we wanted to clarify a few things, like what organ donation entails, myths around the medical procedure, and some FAQs you may want to know. Let’s dive in!
Defining Organ Donation
Organ donation typically involves surgically removing organs or tissues from the body upon death. Organs determined healthy enough are transplanted into an organ recipient due to their organ failure, disease, or injury. There is also living organ donation, which typically involves transplanting a kidney or section of the liver from one person to another. You can directly donate to a loved one or a stranger as long as you are a match. More information on that topic can be found here.
There is a drastic need for organ donors. The number of people in need of organs vastly outnumbers those that donate.
What Can Be Transplanted From the Human Body?
The following organs and tissues can be donated.
- Heart
- Lungs
- Liver
- Kidneys
- Pancreas
- Intestines
- Corneas
- Skin
- Bone
- Connective tissue
- Middle ear
- Heart valves
- Bone marrow
Who Can Be an Organ Donor?
People of all age brackets can be organ donors; however, some conditions may not allow you to donate your organs, including active cancer or infection and heart disease. When an organ donor dies, they are evaluated by a doctor to see what can be used.
What Are Some Common Myths About Organ Donation?
Myth: Medical personnel will not save your life if you have “organ donor” on your chart.
This is not true. Healthcare professionals will try to save your life at all costs; they don’t prioritize someone else over your well-being.
Myth: Organ donation is against my religion.
Many religions believe that donating organs is an act of charity. Similar thought processes align with Catholics, Islamics, Buddhists, and most branches of Protestantism and Judaism. If in doubt, ask someone in your community.
Myth: If you donate your organs, you can’t have an open-casket funeral.
Your body will be treated with the utmost care and respect. If you donate your organs, your skin will be sewn back up. No one will be able to tell that you donated.
Myth: You’re too old to donate.
There isn’t a standard age to stop donating; the decision goes primarily to your organ health. A healthcare team will decide whether your organs and tissues can be used and where they’ll ultimately go.
Some Additional FAQs About Organ Donation
FAQ: Is there any cost to the family or estate if someone donates their organs?
Absolutely not. There is no out-of-pocket charge.
FAQ: Who decides what organs go where?
It’s up to a national computer system that adheres to strict standards. Each organ is matched by blood and tissue type, size, urgency, waiting time, and geographical location.
For additional information about organ donation, click here.