The Gift of Life

What is organ donation?
It is the gift ones body parts after death for the purpose of transplantation. Transplantation is an operation which involves the replacement of diseased and defective organs and tissues with healthy ones from donors

What are the organs and tissues that can be donated?
The commonly transplanted organs are kidneys, heart, liver, lungs, and pancreas while the transplantable tissues are eyes, bone, skin, and heart valves. Thus a single donor can save the lives of a number of people

When are the organs and tissues removed?
Only when death has been confirmed by two registered doctors. The doctors involved with certification of death are not involved in the transplant operation at all

Are there any religious objections?
No. All the major religions of the world -Islam, Christianity, Buddhism, Hinduism and Sikhisn endorse organ and tissue donation as the ultimate act of charity and benevolence

Who can be a donor?
Anyone, young and old alike can sign up to be a donor. Individuals below 18 years of age will need parental/guardian consent

What if I change my mind later?
Organ donation is voluntary and if at any point you decide against donating your organs and tissues, all you have to do is to inform your family about it

For further information, contact:
The National Transplant Resource Centre, HKL