“Between 10,000 and
12,000 people die annually who are considered medically suitable for organ,
tissue and cornea donation, yet only a fraction of them are donors.” This is according to CORE, the Center for
Organ Recovery and Education. Unless
this touchy topic is discussed prior to a death, the lifesaving opportunity may
be lost. Why don’t people jump at the
chance to save a life? Fear, superstition
and misinformation are three of the main reasons.
All major religions
support organ and tissue donation.
Medical personnel are bound by their oath to do everything in their
power to save a person involved in an accident even though that individual is a
donor. Systems are in place to protect
the integrity of the deceased. Fear can
be alleviated. Superstition can be explained. Misinformation can be
corrected. All it takes is a willingness
to learn and then to discuss with family.
I signed up through the Department of Motor Vehicles about
15 years ago. It just seemed like the
right thing to do. Since then, we have
had personal experience with transplantation.
A cousin received a piece of cadaver bone during an orthopedic
procedure. And several friends received
the gift of life with liver and kidney transplants. It’s a beautiful thing when someone who is
near death becomes the beneficiary of an organ and life begins again.
I would encourage everyone to talk with their spiritual
leader about organ donation and then talk with a family member about their
decision. Families need to know what
you want. This can be part of the
discussion about end of life issues or a separate discussion. Kids or parents can bring it up. The key word is “discussion.” Talk about your thoughts so that those who
have to make the decision will know what you want.
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