Organ Donation

2/17/2009

Nobody would want what I have left to give. Those words are often spoken when I assist people to complete the optional organ donation portion of their Power of Attorney for Health Care document. In the past, when I heard those words, I used to mark -No, I do not wish to donate- and move on to finish up the document. Last month something happened that made me change what I do. I was stopped by a woman who said, I remember you. You were with me when my dad, Norman, died in the hospital. I wonder if I could share a story with you. She went on to tell me that after her dad died, she was asked about his prior wishes for organ and tissue donation. She thought about his age (79) and said, He always wanted to be an organ donor, but I think he is too old now. Nevertheless, she gave permission for donation of any organ or tissue that was usable. With tears in her eyes she told me that was three years ago. I am still getting thank you letters from the Organ and Tissue Procurement Organization. Thirty five patients had already received her father's gift of bone to repair bone defects, heal fractures and stimulate bone growth. More tissue and skin donations were still being preserved for use at a later date. The letter she received reminded her that through her decision, she truly gave the gift of life on behalf of her father. Now when I hear people tell me, No one would want what I have left, I tell them Norman's story, and more often than not, people ask me to mark Yes, I wish to donate any organ or tissue that can be used. Norman and his daughter continue to give to others through his story.