National Donate Life Month: Outline Your Organ Donation Wishes

Have you taken the time to outline your wishes regarding organ donation?  If you have yet to do so, now is the perfect time.  The month of April is “National Donate Life Month.”  Created in 2003, this “holiday” focuses on educating others about the need for organ donors.

If you want to make an impact in the lives of others, you may want to consider becoming an organ donor.  With the help of an advanced healthcare directive you can outline your medical wishes for the future, including your organ donation wishes.

What options do I have when deciding to become an organ donor?

 You are in complete control of your organ donation wishes.

If you want, you may choose to donate certain organs and tissue.  If you wish, you are also able to donate your entire body to medical science. (Or, anywhere in between.)

As an organ donor, you can save up to 8 lives.  Many people wait years for organs that eventually save their life!  Or, they can’t wait, and die.

If organ donation is something that interests you, speak with your estate planning attorney.

What can an advanced healthcare directive allow me to do?

• You are able to express your wishes about medical procedures and treatment options.
• You are also able to decide whether you wish to remain on life support if you become seriously ill.
• You can appoint someone who will be responsible for making sure that your medical wishes are followed.  This person is not able to make decisions that go against your wishes.
• You can decide if you want to be an organ donor.  As an organ donor, you can save the lives of others.  All of your organ donation preferences can be outlined in your advanced healthcare directive.

 

If you have any questions about the need for organ donation, consult with a qualified estate planning attorney.