Myth: My drivers license indicates that I am an organ donor. FACT: Licenses in Arizona no longer show your intent. It is necessary to carry a separate card next to your license to indicate that you are a donor. This card is issured plus a sticker to place on your license when you register with the Arizona Donor Registry.
Myth: Wealthy people can buy organs. FACT: It's a federal crime to buy or sell organs and tissues. Factors such as race, income or celebrity status are never considered when determining who receives an organ. The organ allocation and distribution system is based on many factors including blood type, length of time of the waiting list, geographical location, severity of illness and other medical criteria. There is no way to buy a place on the national wating list.
Myth: Doctors may let me die to transplant my organs. FACT: Doctors who treat patients at the time of death have nothing to do with donation or transplantation of the patient's organs and tissues. Every effort is made to save the patient's life before donation can be considered.
Myth: It costs money to donate. FACT: There is no cost to be an organ and tissue donor. Donation is a gift. Any costs associated with transplantation are included in the surgical, medical and hospital costs of the reciepient.
Myth: Donation disfigures the body and delays the funeral. FACT: Donation does not change the way a person looks in a casket. Donated organs and tissues are removed surgically as in a routine operation. Most donations take place within 24 hours after death and do not delay a funeral arrangements.
Myth: My religion opposes donation. FACT: All major religions -- Roman Catholicism, Protestantism, Judaism, Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism -- fully support donation. It is a charitable act.
Myth: Donation is painful for the donor's family. FACT: Studies show that donation most often provides immediate and long-term consolation. Donation can be especially comforting when the death is unexpected and the donor is young.
Contact: 520-887-7847, lifedonor@msn.com for further information or to schedule a program featuring donor family members, living donors or organ recipients.
