Donate Life

It’s discouraging to know that we still have an organ shortage in this country.

It’s discouraging to know that we still have an organ shortage in this country. The sad reality is that thousands die each year due to the lack of donated organs available for transplant. Someday, our brightest scientists and thought leaders will come up with new options for people whose lives now depend on the generosity and compassion of organ donors. In the meantime, it’s up to all of us.

As we go to press, the United Network for Organ Sharing reports that 99,033 people are waiting for a second chance at life. Donation laws vary and guidelines have changed in the past decade. To ensure that your life-giving donation decision is carried out, follow these simple but necessary steps:

Register with your state donor registry. Most states have donor registries. Each is linked to the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS), an organization that maintains the national waiting list. To register and for other local information, contact Donate Life America at donatelife.net or 1-804-782-4920.

State your intention to become a donor when obtaining or renewing your driver’s license.

Sign a donor card today. Carry it with you until your driver’s license designates your donation decision or you join a donor registry. Use the card shown below or download, print, and sign the card available at organdonor.gov.

Share your decision with your family before a crisis occurs. Many states do not require family consent to carry out a documented intention to donate—some do. Keep everyone informed so they understand and support your decision. Sign the family notification card available at donatelife.net to help avoid confusion or delays.

Newborns as well as senior citizens have been organ donors. For information about living donation of a kidney or liver, call UNOS at 1-888-894-6361. If you wish to donate your entire body, contact directly the medical organization of your choice to make arrangements.