You may have seen some recent headlines about organ donation that have left people with more questions than answers. In fact, some people have expressed doubts about being a part of the donor registry.
It makes sense to pause when you hear worrying stories — organ donation is a personal decision, and it’s natural to feel cautious. But before you make any changes, it helps to know the full story. One “yes” to donation can save up to eight lives and help heal up to 75 more through tissue and eye donation.
Addressing Common Misconceptions About Donation
We know some people have concerns about being a donor. Let’s address some of the most common ones:
- Does being a donor mean doctors won’t work as hard to save me? Absolutely not. Emergency responders and doctors will always do everything they can to save your life, even if you are a registered donor. Your life always comes first.
- Am I too old or sick to be a donor? Anyone, regardless of age or medical history, may be able to donate. Just last year, the oldest organ donor ever was a 98-year-old man right here in Missouri.
- Does my religion support donation? All major religions support donation. After all, it is an act of love and generosity towards others.
- Can a donor still have an open-casket funeral? Yes. We know this is an important aspect of saying farewell to loved ones, and throughout the entire donation process, the body is treated with respect, dignity and care.
- Are organ transplants in the U.S. fair? The U.S. transplant system is highly regulated. Race, income, or fame have no impact on where someone ranks on the national transplant list. The ranking is determined by medical need, and organs are matched based on the patient’s blood type, time waiting, medical information and location.
Your Decision to Be a Donor Matters
Right now, more than 100,000 Americans are waiting for a lifesaving organ transplant. Every 8 minutes, another person is added to that list. And because only about 1% of deaths each year occur in a way that allows for organ donation, every single registered donor makes a difference.
It’s easy to get caught up in scary headlines. But here’s the truth: organ donation saves more than 39,000 lives each year in this country. Behind every number is a story: a father living long enough to walk his daughter down the aisle, a breast cancer survivor healing through reconstructive surgery, a child finally strong enough to play a sport. All these moments are possible because someone said “yes” to organ and tissue donation.
If you’re unsure about staying registered, we encourage you to ask questions, look for trusted information, and talk it over with people you trust. And if you do choose to say “yes,” share that decision with your family and friends. Having that conversation now gives them peace of mind later — and it may inspire others to give the same gift of life.
Registering only takes a couple of minutes. Visit SayYesGiveLife.org to learn more.