Become a Donor

Anyone over the age of 18 can indicate their desire to be an organ donor by signing a donor card or expressing their wishes to family members. Relatives can also donate a deceased family member's organs and tissues, even those family members under the age of 18.

If you are younger than 18, you can still choose to donate, but only with the consent of an adult who is legally responsible for you, such as a parent or legal guardian. The adult(s) should witness your signature on a donor card.

Deceased donation of heart, liver, lung, pancreas, or heart/lung can occur only in the case of brain death, kidneys can be donated by a living or deceased donor. The donation of tissues such as bone, skin, or corneas can occur in almost any cause of death.

Fill out a family notification card; you'll notice a section to give to your family. Most states have a designation on a driver license to indicate your wishes to be a donor. Some states have a donor card on the back of the license; others have a place to check or a colored sticker to put on the license.

It is also extremely important that you let your family know that you want to become an organ and tissue donor. Ask family members to sign your donor card as a witness. When you die, your next-of-kin will be asked to give their consent for you to become a donor. It is very important that they know you want to be a donor because that will make it easier for them to follow through on your wishes.

It would also be useful to tell your family physician and your religious leader that you would like to be a donor. And, it would be a good idea to tell your attorney and indicate in your will that you wish to be a donor.

I want to become an organ and tissue donor!
Fill out the form below and registry information will be sent to you. Be sure to fill out the form completely.