Organ Donation Fact vs Myth

Media surrounds us, and it’s no surprise that our thoughts and opinions are shaped by what we see and hear in the media. From tabloid articles to talk shows to TV programs and movies, there are many untruths communicated about organ and tissue donation and transplantation. These create confusion in the public mind and frustration for medical professionals.

People must have the facts in order to make informed decisions about donation. The fact is that nationwide 18 people die each day waiting for organs, and more than 109,000 Americans are currently waiting for life-saving organ transplants while thousands more need life-enhancing tissue transplants. The fact is that we could easily meet the need for donated organs and tissue if more people were willing to become donors. By separating fact from fiction, we will be better prepared to make the donation decisions for ourselves and our loved ones.

Myth
If I am admitted to the hospital and the doctors find out I am an organ donor, they won’t try as hard to save my life.

Fact
There are safeguards in the system. Doctors and nurses involved in your care are not involved in organ recovery or transplantation. Everything medically possible will be done to save your life before donation is even considered.

Myth
When you’re waiting for a transplant, your financial or celebrity status is more important than your medical status.

Fact
A national system, United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) regulates who gets organs. Key factors are: severity of illness, how long the patient has been waiting, and tissue and blood type matching. Social or financial data are not part of the computer database and, therefore, are not factors in the determination of who receives an organ.

Myth
People can “wake up” from brain death.

Fact
Brain death is a clinical and legal declaration of death, not a coma. Brain death occurs in patients who have suffered a severe and irreversible injury to the brain and brain stem. Mechanical ventilation and medications may keep the heart beating and blood flowing for a few days but not permanently.

Myth
No one will want my organs because of my medical history and age.

Fact
Everyone, regardless of their age or health condition is urged to sign up on the online donor registry, Donate Life Hawaii. At the time of death, medical professionals will determine a person’s eligibility to become a donor.