Organ donation takes healthy organs and tissues from one person for transplantation into another. Experts say that the organs from one donor can save or help as many as 50 people.
Organs you can donate include:
- Internal organs - kidneys, heart, liver, pancreas, intestines, lungs
- Skin
- Bone and bone marrow
- Corneas
Most organ and tissue donations occur after the donor has died. But some organs and tissues can be donated with the donor is alive.
People of all ages and backgrounds can be organ donors. If you are under the age of 18, your parent or guardian must give you permission to become a donor. If you are 18 or older, you can show you want to be a donor by signing a donor card. You should always let your family know your wishes.
When you've made the decision to become an organ and tissue donor, here's what to do:
- Sign the organ and tissue donor card, and carry it in your wallet or purse at all times. Have two people witness your signature, preferably family members.
- If you have a driver's license, find out from your local motor vehicle department how you can indicate on it that you want to be an organ and tissue donor.
Organ and tissue donations at Glendale Memorial Hospital are coordinated through the federally-designated organ procurement agency, One Legacy. For more information, visit the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services web site at www.organdonor.gov.
