Organ and tissue donation plays a vital role in saving and healing lives. One generous decision can restore sight, improve quality of life, and offer second chances to individuals and families who may have been waiting for hope. Behind every transplant or tissue donation is a story of connection, one person’s choice becoming another person’s opportunity to live, heal, or see the world again.
Despite its life-changing impact, donation is often surrounded by misinformation. Myths and misunderstandings can create unnecessary fear or hesitation, preventing people from learning the facts about how donation works and why it matters. Correcting this misinformation is essential. When people have clear, accurate information, they are better equipped to make informed decisions rooted in compassion rather than uncertainty.
One of the most important, and often overlooked, steps in donation is talking with loved ones about your decision. Registering as an organ and tissue donor is powerful, but sharing that choice ensures your wishes are understood and honored. These conversations provide clarity during emotional moments and offer families reassurance, knowing they are carrying out a decision made with intention and care.
This year’s National Donor Day theme uses trees as a symbol of life and connection. Like trees in a forest, donation creates a network of connection between donors, recipients, and their families. Each gift becomes part of something larger, a living legacy that continues to grow, offering hope, healing, and life long after the original decision is made. This February 14, take a moment to learn the facts, dispel myths, and talk with your loved ones, helping ensure your legacy continues to grow.