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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.

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.

I'm not in the best of health. Nobody would want my organs or tissues
"I'm not in the best of health. Nobody would want my organs or tissues."
The Facts:  

Very few medical conditions automatically disqualify you from donating organs. The decision to use an organ is based on strict medical criteria. It may turn out that certain organs are not suitable for transplantation, but other organs and tissues may be fine. Don't disqualify yourself prematurely. Only medical professionals at the time of your death can determine whether your organs are suitable for transplantation.

"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

There were 47,530 corneal transplants performed in the U.S. in 2014. 

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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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