Organ Donations

Parents see life in the faces of their children; they don’t want to think about death. But, when it comes to organ donation one family’s tragedy can be another’s future happiness.

Reg Green and his wife know the agony of making that decision. After their son was murdered they decided to donate his organs. “His future was taken away from him and it seemed more important than ever that the future should be given to someone else,” explains Green.

Five months ago nine-year old Jessica got a new liver and a new future. However, every two hours, someone like Jessica dies waiting often because only one-third of grief- stricken families can make the decision to give away the organs of the one they loved most. The parents are faced with what seems to be a sterile, emotionally-shattering decision. “You just have to hope that in this time of grief that they’re willing to try and help somebody else, and that’s kind of the ultimate gift,” says Dr. Thomas Heffran, transplant surgeon.

The first thing Jessica plans to do when she gets home is play with her toys. To her donor she says, “I could never thank these people enough.”

What Parents Should Know

There are many reasons why more people do not donate organs. The following information should be helpful in making an informed decision and dispel some of the myths regarding the process.

Myth: It costs money to donate.
Fact: Donor families are not charged the associated medical costs.

Myth: Signing a donor card is pointless.
Fact: Although the family must still sign a donation consent, having a signed card is the best way to make one’s wishes known.

Myth: Donation disfigures the body and delays the funeral.
Fact: Organs are removed surgically and there is no body disfigurement. Most donations take place within 24 hours after death.