How to Become an Organ Donor

Organ donation allows healthy organs and tissues from one person to be transplanted into another. It is possible that organs from one donor can save or help as many as 50 people. Organs a person can donate include the internal organs like kidneys, heart, liver, pancreas, intestines, lungs, as well as skin, bone and bone marrow, and the cornea. Here's how to donate.

Things You'll Need

• Driver's license or donor card

Instructions

1. Research organ donation and think about what it means. Consider your religion and whether organ donation is compatible with that religion.

2. Discuss your desire to be an organ donor with your family. This step is critical because when you die your next-of-kin will be required to give consent for organ donation even if you made your wishes clear while you were living. If your next-of-kin refuses, your wish to be an organ donor will not be carried out.

3. Get a donor card. If you are over 18, you can download the card (see Resources). You must then sign the card and carry it in your wallet. If you are under 18 you must have a parent or guardian's consent.

4. In some states, you can state your intent to be an organ donor when you renew your driver's license. Check with your Motor Vehicle Bureau.

Resources

• Get an organ donor card