LIFE SAVING DECISION

Organ donation is all about life.

Step One - Share Your Life
Transplantation is one of the most remarkable success stories in the history of medicine. Transplantation is often the only hope for thousands of people suffering from organ failure, or in desperate need of corneas, skin, bone, or other tissue. More than 80,000 Americans await lifesaving organs while hundreds of thousands more could benefit from tissue transplants. Tragically, the need for donated organs and tissues is greater than the supply. Thousands of people die needlessly each year due to lack of donors. You can save lives by deciding to be an organ and tissue donor.

Step Two - Share Your Decision
Sharing your decision to be an organ and tissue donor with your family is as important as making the decision itself. At the time of your death, your family will be asked about donation. Sharing your decision with your family now will prevent confusion or uncertainty about your wishes. Carrying out your wish to save other lives can provide your family with great comfort in their time of grief.

Here are some ideas to help you explain your decision to your loved ones. Remember, it's important for your family to support your commitment.

Tell them that organ and tissue donation is consistent with your life values and feels like the right thing for you to do.

Tell them how one person can potentially help more than 50 other people. Donation can dramatically improve - even save - the lives of those suffering from organ failure, bone defects, burns or blindness

Tell them that they will be asked for consent at the time of your death.

Have your family witness your decision. If you have already signed a donor card or indicated your decision on your driver's license, show it to them. If not, have them sign your donor card as your witness.