Each year thousands of Americans could benefit from an organ transplant. The public may be misinformed about some aspects of the organ donation issue. Here are the facts that should help you better understand the organ donation process.
Fact: Arizona lags behind other states in post-mortem donation.
Fact: Anyone can be a donor regardless of age, race, or medical history.
Fact: All major religions in the United States support organ, eye and tissue donation and see it as the final act of love and generosity toward others.
Fact: If you are sick or injured and admitted to the hospital, the number one priority is to save your life. Organ donation can only be considered after you are deceased.
Fact: When you are on the waiting list and an organ becomes available, the severity of your illness, time spent waiting, blood type, and other important medical information is considered, not your finances or celebrity status.
Fact: An open casket funeral is possible for organ, eye and tissue donors. Through the entire donation process the body is treated with care, respect and dignity.
Fact: There is no cost to the donor or their family for organ or tissue donation.
Fact: Anyone can be an end-of-life donor regardless of age, race, or past medical history.
Fact: As an organ donor, you can donate multiple organs such as the kidneys, heart, liver, lungs, intestine and pancreas. As a tissue donor, you can donate corneas, skin, bone, bone marrow and heart valves. You may specify what organs and/or tissues you wish to donate when you register to become a donor.