< Arkansas Children's Blog

Donate Life Month - You Have the Power to Save Lives

Published date: April 25, 2017

By Katie Lea , MSN, MHA, RN, NE-BC

Many grieving families of organ donors can take comfort in the fact that their loss may help to save or improve the lives of others. The power to save lives. It allows a donor to save up to eight lives through organ donation, and to save or improve the lives of up to 50 recipients through tissue and eye donation.

For some, an organ transplant means no longer having to be dependent on costly routine treatments to survive. For others, an eye or tissue transplant means the ability to see again or the freedom from pain. Giving of yourself through organ donation means that you can help a host of other people who may now be able to live a fuller life because of your generosity. 

Since 1988 over 500 transplants have been performed at ACH. The gift of life provides the opportunity to improve and extend life. Recipients are given back the opportunity to live long and productive lives, to remain active in their communities and within their families. Organ transplants are not possible without a donation.

You can make a difference by signing up to become an organ donor is an easy way to make a lasting and worthwhile impact on the world after you are gone. Becoming a donor is a positive choice and allows your legacy to live on through another.

Common misconceptions about organ donation:

  • People of all ages and medical histories should consider themselves potential donors. 
  • Even if you have indicated your wishes on your driver’s license or the National Donate Life Registry, share your decision with your family so they know your wishes.
  • Organ donation is consistent with the beliefs of most major religions.
  • There is no cost to the donor family or estate for organ and tissue donation.
  • If you are sick or injured and admitted to the hospital, the number ONE priority is to save your life. Organ donation can only be considered after brain death is declared by a physician.

Resources for someone interested in organ donation:

Visit DonateLife.net to get education and resources about organ donation and transplants.