April is Organ Donation Awareness Month

Transplantation is one of the most remarkable success stories in the history of medicine. But despite continuing advances in medicine and technology, the need for organs and tissue is vastly greater than the number available for transplantation.

Despite continuing efforts at public education, misconceptions and inaccuracies about donation persist.

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

Fact: All major religions in the United States support organ, eye and tissue donation and see 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 to save your life. Organ, eye and tissue donation can only be considered after you are deceased.

Fact: When you are on the waiting list for an organ, what really counts is the severity of your illness, time spent waiting, blood type, and other important medical information, not your financial status or celebrity status.

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 or tissue donation.

Fact: Signing a donor card and a driver's license with an "organ donor" designation may not satisfy your state's requirements to become a donor. Be certain to take the necessary steps to be a donor and ensure that your family understands your wishes.

DID YOU KNOW?

*Every 11 minutes, a name is added to the national transplant waiting list

*More than 97,014 people currently await transplants

*90% of Americans say they support donation, but only 30% know the essential steps to take to be a donor.

*An average of 18 people die each day from the lack of available organs for transplant.

Organ donation has touched our family profoundly; it saved Gavin's life, and we were lucky enough that Tony was a suitable donor. Please consider giving the gift of life!!! You can register to be a donor online by visiting Donate Life America and clicking on your state. Please also tell your family your wishes!