FACTS: The Truth about Donation

Carson City DMVWe encourage everyone to learn the facts and make your decision about organ, eye and tissue donation based on the correct information.

FACT: Everyone has the potential to become a donor.

Everyone can become a donor, regardless of age, race or medical history. All potential donors are screened for medical suitability at the time of death.

FACT: Your life always comes first.

If you are sick or injured and taken to a hospital, the doctors’ and nurses’ first priority is always to save your life. Donation is only considered after death has been declared.

FACT: All religions support donation.

All major religions in the U.S. support or encourage organ, eye and tissue donation as an act of charity. Find your religion’s position on donation here.

FACT: Everyone is treated equal.

When you are on the waiting list for a transplant, what really matters is how sick you are, how long you’ve been waiting, your blood type and other medical factors. A person’s wealth or celebrity status will never be considered.

FACT: The decision is YOURS.

When you register as an organ, eye and tissue donor in Nevada, that decision is legally binding and your wishes cannot be overturned by anyone. If a donor is under the age of 18, the decision will be left up to their family. It is very important to share your decision with your family so they are prepared to honor your decision.

FACT: If you don’t make the decision, your family will.

If you do not make the decision to become a donor, your family will be asked to make it on your behalf. It is important to talk with your loved ones about donation so they can honor your wishes at the time of your death.

FACT: Donation is especially important in minority communities.

Minorities are more likely to suffer from diseases that cause organs to fail, such as diabetes and high blood pressure.

FACT: Minority donors can make a big impact for their community.

When minorities register as donors, it increases the likelihood that matches can be found. One reason for this is their blood type. Because certain blood types are more common in ethnic minority populations, increasing the number of minority donors can increase the frequency of minority transplants. For more information on minorities and organ donation, visit the National Minority Organ Tissue Transplant Education Program.

FACT: An open casket funeral is possible after organ and tissue donation.

Throughout the process, a donor’s body is treated with respect and dignity. Organs and tissues are recovered in a respectful manner and all incisions are closed and dressed. Every effort is made to maintain its appearance in a casket.

FACT: Donation will not cost your family.

A donor’s family will never be asked to pay any costs associated with the donation process. Your family will only be asked to pay for medical care before your death and funeral expenses.