Organ Donation: Making Your Wishes Known

Organ donation can save lives and help others after your death. This guide helps you understand your options and make your wishes known.

How Organ Donation Works

After death, organs and tissues can be transplanted to people who need them. Donation doesn't prevent an open funeral or delay funeral arrangements.

Who Can Donate?

Most people can be organ donors regardless of age or medical history. Your medical condition at the time of death determines which organs can be used.

Types of Donation

Donation can occur after brain death (most common) or after cardiac death (when the heart stops). Both can result in successful transplants.

Registering as a Donor

You can register as an organ donor through your state's donor registry, driver's license, or online at DonateLife.net.

Communicating Your Wishes

Tell your family about your organ donation wishes. They'll need to know your decision if donation becomes possible.

Organ Donation and Religion

Most religions support organ donation. Check with your religious community if you have concerns.

Partial vs. Full Body Donation

You can donate specific organs or tissues, or donate your whole body for medical research.

Cost Considerations

Organ donation doesn't cost the donor's family. The recipient's insurance covers transplant costs.

Changing Your Mind

You can change your organ donation status at any time through your state's donor registry.

Use the End of Life Playbook to document your organ donation wishes.