Are You an Organ Donor?

Written By Marisa Nelson

One organ donor can save up to eight lives. One eye and tissue donor can enhance the lives of up to 50 people. And more than 28,000 lives are saved every year by organ donors. (See organdonor.gov).

According to DonateLife.net and unos.org, more than 122,000 people are currently waiting for a lifesaving organ transplant, and organ transplants have saved and improved the lives of more than 500,000 people in the U.S.

People of any age can save lives by donating organs. There is no upper age limit; parents are the decision makers for donors under age 18.

Even if you have a medical condition, donation may still be possible.

And if you want an open-casket funeral, one is still possible for organ, eye, and tissue donors. 

So if you’ve made the commitment to be an organ donor, how do you ensure that your wishes are followed?

  • List your decision in your advance health care directive.

  • Register at https://register.donatelifecalifornia.org/register/.

  • Discuss your decision with your loved ones so that they understand it, can help ensure your wishes are followed, and can do the same if they choose.

Marisa Nelson
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