Organ Donation & Living Donation

Become a Living Donor — and See the Impact of Your Generous Gift

Becoming an organ donor is a wonderful way to make a difference in the lives of others. Whether donating your organs at the time of your death or becoming a living donor, it can save lives and change futures. 

Organ Donation After Death 

The number of available organs from deceased donors is limited. And sadly, many people on the organ waiting list die before they can receive one. At Lahey Clinic, we can help you understand how to donate your organs after death.

If you donate multiple organs at the time of your death, you can save up to eight lives. If you’re not already a registered donor, a member of the organ procurement organization (OPO) must obtain consent from your family to donate your organs. This happens only after you’re declared legally dead or the decision is made to remove you from life support. 

After donation, the OPO transports your organs to the transplant centers of the intended recipients. Once the donated organs are removed, your body is prepared according to your family’s wishes. An open-casket funeral is still possible, if desired.

Registering as an Organ Donor 

Donor registries are fast and easy ways to show your consent for organ and tissue donation. You can register to be a donor online or at your local motor vehicle department. Registries provide an electronic record of your decision that can be accessed 24/7 in the event of your passing.

Personal information in the donor registry is only accessible to designated donation professionals. The registries cannot sell or share your information to companies or government agencies. If you die in way that organ donation is possible, they contact your next-of-kin. They inform them of your donation decision. They also explain the donation process to follow.

Federal regulations require all hospitals to report their deaths to the local organ procurement organization. This makes it possible for the National Donate Life registry — as well as state motor vehicle registries — to check donor status each time a death is reported. We recommend that if you register as a donor you talk to your family about your decision.

For more information, visit the New England Donor Services site. 

Living Organ Donation  

It’s possible to donate a kidney or part of your liver while you’re still alive. You make the same incredible impact as other organ donors — and you’re there to see it firsthand. 

Live donor organs go to people on the waiting list for a transplant — in most cases, a friend or loved one. Your organ donation can be lifesaving. And our experts at Lahey are here to support you every step of the way. 

As a potential live donor, you go through an extensive evaluation process. We teach you about organ donation and the transplant procedure. We also educate you about the risks and benefits of donating an organ so you’re fully informed as you make your decision about whether to become an organ donor. Throughout the process, we protect your privacy and your rights. 

Become a Living Donor