Donor Family Resources

Q. Does the donation process alter the appearance of my loved one?
A. Donation does NOT have an impact on the ability to have an open casket funeral. The donation surgical process includes precise reconstruction to ensure the donor's appearance is suitable for an open casket funeral. Your loved one will not have an altered appearance because of the donation process.

Q. Is there a cost to donate?
A. No. Donors and donor families incur none of the costs to become a donor. There is no cost to your family associated with donation.

Q. Will you take care of my loved one?
A. We treat donors with the highest level of respect. We recognize their generosity will help many other people - we view them with the highest regard. Our team is very experienced with this process and will do everything in our power to honor your loved one.

Q. Do rich people and celebrities get preferential treatment regarding transplantation?
A. No. It is against the law to purchase donated human organs and tissues. Your compassion in choosing to become a donor family will benefit people regardless of financial status. It is a gift that reflects and honors humanity.

Q. Is there a strong need for donors?
A. Yes, there are many more people in need of transplants than there are donors. Your generosity will fill very great needs.

Q. What do you do for our family?
A. We provide assistance through the bereavement processes through multiple ways, including the telephone assistance, group meetings, booklets sent to you through the mail, an annual donation banquet, and an annual donor quilt. By making this decision, you become part of an important support group of individuals who have been touched by the donation process. We will assist you through this process. Many families find this to be one of the most important comforts in their time of mourning.

Q. Do you accept every potential donor?
A. We try. When someone makes a gracious offer, we do our best to take that gift and share it with many others. There are instances, however, when a donor may not meet certain criteria necessary to ensure a successful transplantation. We will notify you if this occurs in your instance. Regardless, we hold every bit as much esteem for donors who offered the gift, but were not able to donate as those who do.

Q. What happens next?
A. We will contact you by telephone to discuss the donation process. If you wish for your loved one to become a donor, we will guide you through this process through the telephone. As time is of the essence, please be available to take this telephone call.

Q. What if I don't hear from you?
A. Feel free to call us at 1-800-397-3077.