Learn the Facts

Despite continuing public education efforts, myths and misunderstandings about donation persist. These facts will help you better understand organ, eye, and tissue donation:

Fact: 

The number of individuals in need of transplants continues to grow but the number of people who register to be a donor is not keeping pace. 

Fact: 

Anyone can be a potential donor regardless of age, race, or medical history.

Fact: 

Most major religions in the United States support organ, eye, and tissue donation, seeing 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 saving your life. Organ, eye, and tissue donation can only be considered after you are deceased.

Fact: 

There is no discrimination due to age, sex, race, sexual orientation, occupation, social status, financial status or any other factor when determining who gives or receives an organ.

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, eye, and tissue donation.

Fact: 

Agreeing to donation for research when registering donation wishes for organ, eye, and tissue donation, does not include whole body donation.