Organ/Tissue donation

Following a person’s death there may be an opportunity to make a gift of organ(s)/and or tissue which can potentially benefit the wellbeing of others. Illinois has what is known as a First Person Registry. This means that a person has the opportunity to choose for themselves to make a donation should they be eligible at the time of their death. If a person is not a part of the registry their family may be asked to consider donation of organ of tissue. However you feel about donation, it is important to discuss your feelings with your family. This can help them navigate a difficult time with more confidence that they are following your wishes.

Organ and tissue donation is overseen by organizations which are separate from your healthcare team. Illinois is served by organizations like Gift of Hope and Mid-America Transplant Services. A person’s eligibility to donate organs or tissue is determined by the organization which works with hospitals in their area. Only after all life-saving efforts have ceased and a person has been declared brain dead are organs or tissue recovered for donation.

Many communities of faith consider the gift of organs or tissue an act of generosity. See in the links below for an exploration of statements made by many different faith groups about donation. Others, as a part of their deeply held beliefs, may decide that donation in not in keeping with their expression of faith. Some groups set aside time during mid-November to reflect positively upon organ and tissue donation during Donor Sabbath observations.

Religious Viewpoints: https://www.giftofhope.org/faith-communities/religious-viewpoints/list/

National Donor Sabbath materials: https://www.donatelife.net/nds/

Printed Materials: https://www.organdonor.gov/awareness/materials/print-brochures.html