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The Facts About Organ, Eye and Tissue Donation

Although there have been great advances in medical technology and donation, the need for organ, eye and tissue donation still vastly exceeds the number of donors. Get the facts and help us dispel myths about donation.

Rich and famous people go to the top of the list when they need a donor organ
"Rich and famous people go to the top of the list when they need a donor organ."
The Facts:  

The rich and famous aren't given priority when it comes to allocating organs. It may seem that way because of the amount of publicity generated when celebrities receive a transplant, but they are treated no differently from anyone else. When patients are on the waiting list for an organ transplant, their position on that list is based on the severity of their illness, time spent waiting, blood type and other important medical information. Social and financial status are never a factor in this process.

An open-casket funeral isn't an option for people who have donated organs or tissues
"An open-casket funeral isn't an option for people who have donated organs or tissues."
The Facts:  

Organ and tissue donation doesn't interfere with having an open-casket funeral. The donor's body is clothed for burial, so there are no visible signs of organ or tissue donation. Through the entire donation process, the body is treated with care, dignity and respect.

"Hospitals or first responders won't save me if I'm a registered donor."
The Facts:  
If you are sick or injured, the primary duty of emergency responders and hospital staff is to save your life. Your donor designation NEVER interferes with your medical care.  Only Donate Life Maryland professionals have access to the official Maryland Donor Registry.
 

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Statistics

2014 was a record breaking year for the number of transplants performed and the number of deceased donor transplants.

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Common Questions

  • How it Works
    See the step-by-step process of how organ, eye and tissue donation works.
  • Registering
    Get details about how to register.
  • After you Register
    Learn how to share your decision through social media and family conversation.
  • Donation Basics
    Find answers to the most common questions about organ, eye and tissue donation.

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