Transplant and Pulmonary Hypertension

Organ Donation illustration of lungs

One of the greatest gifts you can give a loved one with PH is registering to be an organ donor. The need for donors is greater than the number of donors, and a single donor can save or enhance the lives of more than 50 people. So, sign an organ donation card, but more importantly,share your decision to share life with your family. Even if you have signed a donor card or indicated your wish to donate on your driver’s license, you need to tell your family because they will be consulted before donation can take place.

Here are a few common myths about organ donation and the truth behind them:

Myth: I’m too old, or too young, to be an organ donor.
Truth: People of all ages and medical histories are potential donors. Your medical condition at the time of death will determine which organs and tissue can be donated.

Myth: Organ donation will disrupt funeral and burial plans.
Truth: Recovery of organs and tissues does not interfere with funeral and burial arrangements. An open casket funeral is possible for organ and tissue donors.

Myth: If I become an organ donor, it will be a financial burden for my family.
Truth: There is no cost to the donor’s family or estate for organ and tissue donation. Funeral costs remain the responsibility of the family.

Myth: If emergency room doctors know you’re an organ donor, they won’t try as hard to save you.
Truth: The number one priority for the doctors who will treat you in the hospital is to save your life. Organ donation can only be considered if you die and only after your family has been consulted. The physician who certifies a patient’s death cannot be involved in the removal of donated organs or tissues or in the transplant surgery.

Myth: Having organ donor noted on your driver’s license or donor card is enough to make you a donor.
Truth: Your family will be consulted before donation can take place. Signing a donor card or indicating your wishes on a driver’s license is not enough. Tell your family you want to donate life so they can help you share the gift of life.