Living Donation

by Betty Mitchell RN BSN
Parish Nurse, Emmanuel Bethel Church, Royal Oak, Michigan

Many people have indicated on their driver’s license that they are to be considered for organ/tissue donation after they die, and have discussed the decision with their family.

Another way to help someone in need of an organ or tissue transplant would be through a living donation. Blood donation is a well-known method of becoming a donor. Contacting the American Red Cross (or other authorized blood bank) in your area for information on locations to donate blood.

People may also be able to donate a kidney, a section of their liver or a lobe of their lung. Often living donations are made to someone known to the donor since they would be the closest match and be the best suited for transplantation.

If none of your contacts are in need of a transplant, you may contact your local transplant center, usually a teaching hospital in your area to determine if there is a need and how you can be considered for donating.

The following web site has more information on how to register for specific living donations: http://www.livingdonorsonline.org/general.htm. United Network for Organ Sharing has additional helpful information: http://www.unos.org/.

Because you will be subjected to multiple tests prior to being selected, it is important that you prayerfully consider your decision. You will also require time off work after transplantation occurs as you recover from surgery. As with any surgery, there are risks involved that need to be considered.

Being a living donor necessitates having a good support system as you go through the decision-making, testing, surgery and recovery. You will need support through it all. However, once you have made the decision, you will be rewarded with the knowledge you have helped someone lead a fuller life.

I tell you this, brethren: flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God, nor does the perishable inherit the imperishable. (1 Corinthians 15:50)