THIS Organ Donor Month (August) focuses on educating South Africans about the importance of organ donation while eliminating misconceptions.
The national celebration of organ donation on Thursday, 13 August did see more individuals registering as organ donors, but many more are needed to save precious lives.
ALSO READ: Become a life saver this August
Organ donation is the medical process of taking an organ from a deceased person, with the consent of their family and friends, and surgically transplanting it into another person who is in dire need of an organ.
Fears and misconceptions
People are dying from organ failure because of a shortage of organs.
This is often a result of misconceptions surrounding organ donation, which we tackle in these FAQs:
Will organ donation delay the funeral? No. The body is returned to the family for burial or cremation as soon as the donated organs and/or and tissues have been removed.
Will the donation leave my body disfigured? No. Every donor is treatment with respect. The method of removing the organs and tissues is done with great care so as not to change the body’s appearance.
Are there any religious obligations to organ transplantation? Most religions support organ donation as it is consistent with life preservation. If you are ever unsure, ask your spiritual leader.
What is the need for organ donation?
The reality is that organ donors save lives by donating for two types of transplants; organ, and tissue.
The organs (heart, liver, pancreas, kidneys, and lungs) can save seven lives, with tissues (corneas, bone, tendons, heart valves, skin) helping up to 50 people.
This means that, by becoming a donor, you can help save several lives through your contribution.
It’s important to note that you don’t have to donate all your organs when you die, you can specify which you would prefer to donate.
ALSO READ: Organ donation affected by Covid-19 pandemic
Who can be a donor?
Anyone, irrespective of age, can have their organs donated.
The health of the organs is more important than the age of the person. If a donor is under the age of 18, the consent of a parent or legal guardian is required.
A person is legible to become an organ donor if:
– They are in good physical and mental health condition.
– They are willing to donate out of kindness, without expecting anything in return.
– They are not donating under compulsion.
– They are aware of the process of organ donation, the benefits as well as the risks.
How to become an organ donor
1. Register online at www.odf.org.za or call the Organ Donor Foundation’s on toll-free number 0800 22 66 11.
2. You will then be sent an organ donor card which you will need to fill out. Always carry this card with you in a wallet or purse.
3. You will receive stickers to place on your ID document and driver’s license.
4. Discuss your decision with your family so they are aware that you are now an organ donor. Ask your loved ones to respect and honour your decision.
5. Set up a living will in which you indicate your wishes to donate your organs should you die.
How much will donation cost?
Donation costs absolutely nothing.
The Hospital and / or Tissue Bank will cover all medical expenses from the moment your family gives consent.
The donor and their family do not receive any compensation for donating organs or tissue.
You can always change your mind
At the end of the day, organ donation is a personal choice.
If you change your mind, you will need to tear up your donor card and remove the stickers from you ID and driver’s license.
You must also inform your family and friends that you no longer wish to donate your organs or tissues when you die.
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