In modern medicine, needs are constantly arising and claiming the number one priority for hospitals, patients, providers, and the like. A constant thread in this process has been the priority and importance of organ donation and the processes surrounding it. Taking a look and understanding the processes gives the necessary knowledge to individuals and communities alike to recognize organ donation’s incredible importance. The tremendous impact that organ transplants have on the recipients, their families, and loved ones can’t be understated. As we approach April, also known as National Donate Life Month, it’s time to brush up on the importance and logistics of the donation process.
A quick Google search can give you hundreds of inspiring and beautiful stories and accounts of organ donors and recipients sharing their stories. Lives are transformed in beautifully wild and wonderful ways. The mother of one organ donor shares her story of her son and his experience with a brain condition ultimately resulting in his death and donation of 6 organs, saving 6 lives, inspiring a scholarship program, promoting awareness and appreciation among his college and loved ones, and changing the perspective of the meaning of generosity. Another story from a now 15-year-old girl is an inspiring recount of the two heart transplants she has received in her life, how she has worked to recover and pursue her passions of dance, and can advocate and inform her friends about organ donation and the importance of signing up as an organ donor. Yet another family discusses how their young family member passed in a fatal car accident, and because of his choice to be an organ donor, he was able to save 20 lives. The knowledge that the tragic death of their son turned into a beautiful expression of life and helping others helped them to wrestle and process their grief.
The stories and accounts surrounding this topic go on and on. After reading just a select few, anyone can see what a gift the process of donation is. There is a beauty that comes with turning sometimes grief-filled and tragic circumstances under which donors can share themselves and give others a second chance at life even after they are gone.
Process of Organ Donation
It is valuable to understand the donation process from the donor’s experience to the recipient’s experience. Below is the process of deceased organ donation; however, living donation is also possible in certain cases.
- Registration: Registering to be an organ donor is where it all begins. As soon as the age of 16, individuals can register themselves as organ donors and proudly display that heart on their driver’s license or ID. Making your loved ones aware of registration is not only valuable information for them to have but also shares and opens a conversation surrounding the why behind that decision.
- Discussion: When the donor passes, the medical team has conversations amongst themselves and with family members to discuss the options and maintain care, dignity, and respect of the donor. The organ waitlist is checked, and a match is found.
- Organ Recovery: The organs donated need to be working and functioning well. Because of this, major organs come from individuals who pass away in a hospital and can be procured and preserved well. Strict time requirements come into play here, and the process goes quickly to ensure the integrity of the organs. Eye and tissue donations can be processed up to 24 hours after death, so have more time. Once all authorization and matching are completed, the organs are surgically removed while the donor is treated with high regard and respect.
- Transport: The recovered organs are sent to the transplant hospitals where the recipients wait for their operation.
- Procedure: The appropriate procedures and surgeries are conducted to complete a successful organ transplant.
- Follow-up: A letter is sent to the donor’s family to share the recipient’s appreciation for the organs donated, as well as counseling and funeral resources, all while maintaining respect and medical confidentiality.
Transporting Organs
The transportation process is an essential part of this process, as organs have a short window from recovery to transplant. Ground or air transportation may be required to respect the time restrictions and viability of the organ or tissues being donated. Temperature-controlled containers and vehicles and safe and reliable vehicle operators are other components of this process. Effective transportation in these cases is imperative to a successful experience for all involved.
Why Become an Organ Donor?
Here at Medi-Ops, it is an honor to be involved in such an intense and imperative organ donation process and all the stories, logistics, and advocacy involved. The opportunity that each of us has to contribute to someone else’s life after we pass is a wonderfully unique and beautiful way to celebrate our own life and honor someone else’s. Registration and becoming an organ donor is one act that may be a small thing for you. Still, it could save several lives and positively affect countless others during and after your life. The organ waitlist is no small one. Many wait over three years (and that is on the lower end of the waiting spectrum) to be matched with an organ. By taking the time to register, you can help lower the number of individuals waiting for organs and significantly raise the quality of life for so many. Just some food for thought for your day today…