Is everyone on the organ donor register?

The NHS Organ Donor Register is open to everyone, regardless of age. If a child would like to register their decision, or the parent of a child would like to do that for them, this option is available.

What symbol appears on your driver’s license to indicate that you are an organ donor?

When you say “yes” to donation at the DMV, a red heart is added to your license. This heart is legally binding consent to be an organ and eye donor. Deciding to be an organ and eye donor at the DMV means that you have chosen to make all of your organs available for transplant at the time of your death.

Who has the final say in organ donation?

The transplant surgeon makes the final decision. They decide whether the organ is good for their patient. They may refuse the organ if their patient is too sick or they can’t reach them in time. Most organs go to patients in the area where doctors recovered the organs.

What body parts can you donate alive?

As a living donor, you may be able to donate: one of your kidneys, one liver lobe, a lung or part of the lung, part of the pancreas, or part of the intestines.

What happens when you sign up to be an organ donor?

When you sign up in your state, you’re giving permission to donate your organs when you die. Usually, that means dying in a hospital and on artificial support. You will stay on your state’s registry unless you remove yourself. I have an organ donor card. Is that enough? No.

Do I need a donor card to be a donor?

You don’t need to have your donor card on you at all times, the decision you have recorded on the NHS Organ Donor Register will be checked, and your family approached, if the time comes that you are able to be an organ donor. You can also download a donor card that reflects your faith or belief system.

How can I talk to my family about my organ donation?

So, talk to your family and leave them certain. Many people find their donor card is a good way to prompt them into talking about their decision with their loved ones. You could put it somewhere prominent in your home. For example, on the fridge as a daily reminder to your family that you’re signed up as an organ donor.

Can my family override my decision to donate my organs?

Remember that even if you have recorded your decision on the NHS Organ Donor Register, your family will always be involved in organ donation, and they could override your decision if they don’t know what you want. So, talk to your family and leave them certain.