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FAQ's • Facts & Myths • Donation Process
Nikki was diagnosed with kidney disease at 14. By 18, she was failing fast and in need of a transplant that wasn't coming. Her father donated his own kidney to help his daughter live again!
Donation Facts
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How many are waiting?
In the United States, over 117,000 people are currently awaiting organ transplant.
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How many die a day waiting?
Approximately 18 people die each day while waiting for an organ due to the shortage.
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How many die a year?
An estimated 12,000 people die annually who would be medically suitable to donate organs. Only about 8,000 actually donate.
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How many lives can be saved?
Do the Math. 1 organ donor can save up to 8 lives with transplant organs and improve the quality of life for up to 50 people with donated tissues!
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What if I’m already a designated donor?
If you're already an organ donor, remember to tell your family that you believe in donating life! Informing family helps smooth out the process and makes them more comfortable when honoring your wishes.
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What organs can be donated?
Organs that can be donated are: Heart, Liver, Kidney, Pancreas, Lungs, Intestines.
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What tissue can be donated?
Tissues that can be donated include: Bone, tendons, heart valves, skin, cornea
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Why should minorities become donors?
Diseases of the heart, lung, pancreas and kidney are more common in ethnic minorities than Caucasians. For example, African Americans make up more than one third of the national waiting list for kidney transplants. Minority donors are greatly needed. Race is not a factor in organ matching, but there is a better chance of finding a compatible blood type from donors of a similar ethnic background.
Donation Myths
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I’m not the right age to donate.
There is no age limit to becoming a donor!
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I’m too unhealthy to donate.
Very few illnesses actually prevent someone from being a donor.
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Rich & famous people get organs first.
The matching system for pairing donors and patients is computerized. Recipients' financial or celebrity status never factor in.
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My religion does not support donation.
Most major religions in the US support organ donation. Some even strongly endorse it.
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Donating will cost my family money.
Organ donation does not come at a cost to the donor's family. The donor’s family pays for medical care and funeral costs, but not for organ donation. Costs related to donation are paid by the recipient, usually through insurance, Medicare, or Medicaid.
