Organ, Tissue & Body Donation - Giving the Gift of Life

Organ and tissue donations allow you-at the end of your life-to give the gift of life to another, or even to many other people. Body donation allows you to help advance medical teaching and research for the benefit of future generations. 

Washington State legislation upholds an individual's decision to donate upon death. When you sign a donor registry card or indicate "Organ Donor" on your driver's license you are giving legal consent to organ donation upon your death. If you wish to ensure tissue and cornea donation as well, you can make that designation known by joining the Donor Registry.

• Frequently asked questions about organ and tissue donation

Informing your family and caregivers
Sharing your decision to be an organ, tissue or body donor with your family is as important as making the decision itself. At the time of your death, your family will be approached about donation. Sharing your decision with your family now will help them understand your intent to become a donor. This will also prevent confusion or uncertainty about your wishes. Respecting your wish to save other lives can provide your family with great comfort in their time of grief.

Joining the Donor Registry
Transplantation is one of the most remarkable success stories in the history of medicine. In most cases, it's the only hope for thousands of people suffering from organ failure, or in desperate need of corneas, skin, bone or other tissue. Tragically, the need for donated organs and tissues continues to outpace the supply. Currently, more than 82,000 people nationwide are awaiting life-saving transplants. Organ and tissue donation provides each of us with a special opportunity to help others. It is important to make your wishes known by joining the Washington State Donor Registry or contacting LifeCenter Northwest at 425-201-6563.

About LifeCenter Northwest
LifeCenter Northwest is a nonprofit organization designated by the federal government to facilitate organ donation in Alaska, Montana, Northern Idaho and Washington. LifeCenter Northwest can answer individual questions about organ and tissue donations if you call them toll-free at: 1-877-275-5269.

About University of Washington Willed Body Program
Even if you are not a possible candidate for organ or tissue donation, it is very likely that the donation of your body would be accepted by the UW School of Medicine for medical teaching and research.  If it is your desire to become a donor to the UW Willed Body Program it is advisable to contact them in advance and complete the appropriate paperwork.  You may reach them at 206-543-1860.

Northwest Lions Foundation for Sight and Hearing

Northwest Tissue Center

Washington Department of Licensing Organ Donor Program

Most major religions, including Protestant, Catholic and Jewish faiths, support and encourage organ, body and tissue donation as a charitable and virtuous act. Talk to your spiritual leader about your decision.