Organ Donation: Myths and Facts

In my experience talking to people about organ donation, trying to convince them to become donors, I have learned that many are not organ donors because of their lack of knowledge. Many people do not take the time to become educated; to learn more about the organ donation process. With over 98,000 people on the National Waiting List it is important that each and everyone of us take the time to get educated. On the Love for Ashley blog, I will highlight some of the more common myths and facts on organ donation and I will share with you important online resouces for organ donation.

Myth 1
Doctors will not do everything possible to save my life if they find out I am an organ/tissue donor.
Fact
Donation can only occur when a patient is declared brain dead. Brain death is declared by a separate team of doctors who are not affliated with the organ donor recovery team.

Myth 2
My family will be responsible for the medical bills associated with organ donation.
Fact
A family of an organ/tissue donor is never responsible for the costs related to donation. It is often the responsibility of the organ recipient and their insurance company. However, sometimes the hospital incurs the cost.

Myth 3
My religion is against organ donation.
Fact
All major religions endorse donation as the highest humanitarian act. Religious leaders, including the Pope, have all publicly supported donation.

Myth 4
I am too young or too old to be an organ/tissue donor.
Fact
People as young as newborns to age 99 have been organ donors.

Myth 5
Signing an organ donor card or having organ donation on my drivers license makes me an organ donor.
Fact
Signing an organ card is helpful but your wish to be an organ donor must be shared with your family.

To learn more about organ donation myths and facts, please visit United Network for Organ Sharing.

To learn more about Organ and Tissue Donation in America, visit Gift of a Lifetime.

To learn how to be an organ/tissue donor in your state, visit OrganDonor.gov.