April is National Donate Life Month with Donate Life America, which features local, regional and national activities to help encourage Americans to register as organ, eye and tissue donors and to celebrate those that have saved lives through the gift of donation.
Did you know?
More than 116,000 men, women and children await lifesaving organ transplants, but sadly, 22 people die each day because the organs they need are not donated in time.
95% of Americans are in favor of being a donor but only 54% are registered.
Becoming a donor is a personal decision, but sometimes, myths and misconceptions about donation can prevent a person from signing up. Organdonor.gov, a resource of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, addresses the most common myths and facts about organ donation. By learning and sharing this information, it’s possible to increase the number of donors for much-needed organs and tissues. Anyone, regardless of age or medical history can sign up to be a donor.
If you decide you would like to become an organ donor, you can register in two ways:
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In-person at your local motor vehicle department.
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Online via the Wisconsin Department of Health & Services website.
(Organ donors can be deceased or living. If you are interested in living donation, you find more information here.)
Be sure to let your family know you have registered, so they can support your wishes! Creating an advance directive, also known as living will, is a way to legally specify your personal goals, values and beliefs about healthcare decisions should you be unable to make them for yourself. The WWHF’s GrapeVine program offers an educational session on the advance care planning process. View our Events Calendar for a session near you, or request one.