FAQ’s about organ donation:
Q. Am I too old to become an organ donor?
A. People of all ages become organ and tissue donors. Physical condition, not age, is important. Please sign an organ donor card; doctors will decide whether your organs and tissue can be transplanted. The oldest organ donor, in Canada, was in their 90’s. It is the health of the donors organs that matter the most.
Q. What organs can be donated?
A. One organ donor can save the lives of eight people and assist the lives of 50 more! It is possible to donate your kidneys, liver, lungs, heart, pancreas, eyes, tissue, bones, stomach, and small bowels.
Q. If I sign my organ donor card or sign an organ donor registry, can I change my mind later?
A. It is completely acceptable to change your mind about becoming an organ donor. Remember to let your family know your wishes.
Q. If I become an organ donor do I have to change my funeral arrangements?
A. There should be no significant changes to your funeral arrangements. The procedures necessary for organ retrieval do not create a significant time delay in releasing the body to your funeral home, nor, do they disfigure the donor’s body.
Q. It is true that even if I sign my organ donor card or register with an organ donor registry, my family can override my wishes to become an organ donor at the time of my death?
A. Yes. That is why it is so important to discuss your decision with your loved ones. Let them know that you want to give the gift of life today!
Q. Can I become and organ donor and donate my body to medical research?
A. Unfortunately, you can’t do both. It is best to think about which donation is most important to you. The ODTAC often encourages people to donate their body to medical research once they have been ruled out as a potential organ donor.
Q. Does having a serious illness or a history of illness rule me out as an organ donor?
A. Not necessarily. Doctors will individually assess all potential organ donors at the appropriate time.
Q. If I agree to become an organ donor, will the doctors still make every effort to save my life?
A.The doctors will only refer a patient, as a potential organ donor, once all lifesaving methods and procedures have been exhausted.
Q. Does my religion approve of organ donation?
A. Most religions approve of organ donation, viewing it as an act of charity. If you have any questions or concerns please seek council from your spiritual advisor.
Some of these answers are available in pdf format, here.
