How to become an organ donor

Every day, about 22 people in the United States die while waiting for an organ transplant. And, more than 118,000 people are currently waiting for organ transplantation. Thousands more are in need of tissue and corneal transplants.

Donated organs and tissue may offer the gift of sight, freedom from machines, or even life itself for people whose organs are failing because of disease or injury.

The Importance of Organ Donation

April is National Donate Life Month and the need for organ donors is greater than ever.

Did you know:

  • An average of 68 organ transplants are performed every day in the United States.
  • A single organ and tissue donor may save up to 8 people or enhance the lives of up to 75 people.
  • Approximately 28,000 patients begin new lives each year thanks to organ transplants.
  • Over 100 people are added to the nation’s organ transplant waiting list each day — one every 10 minutes.

You have the power to save lives and improve the quality of life of those in need of any form of transplant.

Becoming an organ and tissue donor is one of the most generous actions you can take, and registration is easy.

How to Register as an Organ Donor

  • Visit the UPMC Donate Life page to learn more about organ donor registration.
  • Register with your state’s organ donor registry, which can be found by visiting DonateLife.net.
  • Select “yes” to organ donation when you apply for or renew your driver’s license, or by visiting DMV.gov.
  • Sign a donor registration card, available at any of the UPMC events throughout April.

To learn more about organ donation, including debunking myths, visit the UPMC Donate Life website.