Who Can Donate
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Most People Can Donate Organs and/or Tissue
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| All people of all ages should consider themselves
potential organ and tissue donors. There are few absolute
exclusions (HIV positive, active cancer, systemic infection)
and no strict upper or lower age limits. Potential donors
will be evaluated for suitability when the occasion arises.
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You Are Never Too Old
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| No one is too old or too young. Both newborns
and senior citizens have been organ donors. The condition
of your organs is more important than age. Someone 35
years old with a history of alcohol abuse may have a liver
that is in worse condition than someone 60 years old who
has never consumed alcohol. In addition, people on the
waiting list might need to be transplanted with an organ
that is less than ideal if there is no other suitable
organ available in time to save their lives. Doctors will
examine your organs and determine whether they are suitable
for donation if the situation arises. If you are under
18, you will need the permission of a parent or guardian
to donate. |
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Medical Condition? Don't Rule Yourself Out
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| You may still be able to donate your organs. Doctors
will evaluate the condition of your organs when the time
arises. The transplant team’s decision will be based
on a combination of factors, such as the type of illness
you have had, your physical condition at the time of your
death, and the types of organs and tissues that would
be donated. |
