Becoming an organ donor is a significant decision that can save lives. However, myths and fears around donation often cloud the subject, discouraging potential organ donors.
Texas Organ Sharing Alliance (TOSA) works to dispel these myths, raise awareness, and encourage more people to say yes to donation, especially in Hispanic communities, where higher rates of diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease contribute to organ failure.
Here are the answers to some of the most frequent questions in our community about organ donation.
Q: Is organ donation against my faith?
A: Most major faiths support organ donation. Most religions believe organ donation to be an act of charity.
Q: If I sign up as an organ donor, will doctors and hospital staff still try to save my life?
A: Absolutely. Healthcare professionals are fully committed to saving lives. Every healthcare worker has taken an oath to give their patients the best care. Organ donation is considered only after all life-saving interventions have been exhausted and the patient has been legally declared to be in a state of cerebral death.
Q: If I sign up to be an organ donor, will my family be consulted?
A: Yes, families are always consulted and involved in the donation process, even if the individual is a registered organ donor. That is why it is important to have conversations about organ donation with your family.
Q: I am not in the best health; can I still sign up as an organ donor?
A: Yes, anyone can register to become a donor. Medical staff will evaluate which organs are viable and decide at the time of death if organs can be transplanted. There are no health or age restrictions for those wanting to sign up.
Q: Will being an organ donor affect my funeral arrangements?
A: Organ donation does not interfere with funeral practices and donors can have an open-casket service. Bodies are restored and returned to their respective families. After organ donation, procedures are performed with the utmost respect and care.
Addressing these concerns is vitally important to increasing organ donation in the Hispanic community, where the need is great, to give people an opportunity for a second chance at life.
“By learning the facts and having those meaningful conversations, people can make informed decisions that can ultimately save lives.” said Joe Nespral, TOSA President and CEO. “We encourage those who are signed up or ready to make the decision to talk to their loved ones about their wishes.
To learn more about organ donation or to sign up, please visit TOSA1.org.
