Organ Donation

Last year, more than 25,000 American lives were saved through organ donation. Yet, almost 100,000 men, women and children are still waiting for a transplant. And because the need for organs and tissue is much greater than the amount available for donation, another person is added to this list every 12 minutes.

The Indiana Organ Procurement Organization Inc. (IOPO) hopes to save and enhance the quality of life through organ and tissue donation for the approximate 900 Hoosiers hoping for a second chance.

Tissues, cornea and organ donations can be given by nearly anyone, regardless of race, age and medical history. It is also possible for living donors to help family members, friends, even strangers, by donating a kidney and sometimes a portion of other organs. Matches are made by comparing a donor’s blood and tissue type as well as body size with a list of potential recipients. The severity of the recipient’s illness, as well as his or her time on the waiting list, is also taken into consideration.

Because state laws vary, it is important to be aware of your state’s requirements. The Indiana Donor Choice law states that if you are 18 years of age or older and have registered as a donor on your Indiana driver’s license, the state’s donor registry or signed a legal document indicating that you would like to be a donor, medical professionals have the authority to carry out your wish.

However, the most important step in becoming a donor is to discuss your wishes with your family. Healthcare specialists from IOPO will discuss the donation process with them even if you have completed the necessary documents.

For more information on organ donation and IOPO, visit iopo.org or visit donatelifeindiana.org to register your decision to be a donor.