Myths & Facts

Myth: There are age limits on donation

Fact: There is no age limit on who can donate.

Whether individuals can donate organs and tissue depends on their physical condition, not their age. Newborns as well as senior citizens have been organ donors.

Myth: Donation will disfigure my body.

Fact: Donated organs are removed surgically in a routine operation similar to appendix removal. Donation doesn't disfigure the body.

Myth: My family will be charged for donating my organs.

Fact: Donation costs nothing to the donor's family.

Myth: My decision to be a donor will affect my medical care

Fact: Organ and tissue recovery takes place only after all efforts to save your life have been exhausted and death has been legally declared. The medical team treating you is completely separate from the transplant team.

Myth: Religion does not support donation.

Fact: Most major religions approve of organ and tissue donation and consider it an act of charity.

Myth: I have a history of medical illness. Hence I cannot donate organs.

 Fact: At the time of brain death, the appropriate medical professionals will review your medical and social histories to determine whether or not you can be a donor.

Myth: I don't need to tell my family that I want to be a donor because I have it written in my will.

Fact: By the time your will is read, it will be too late to recover your organs. Telling your family now that you want to be an organ and tissue donor is the best way to ensure that your wishes are carried out.

Have you heard a myth?

If you have heard a myth about organ donation or transplantation, please E-mail us.