Transplantation

25 Facts About Organ Donation and Transplantation

The success rates of transplant surgery have improved remarkably, but growing shortages exist in the supply of organs and tissues available for transplantation. Many Americans who need transplants cannot get them because of these shortages. The result: some of these people die while waiting for that "Gift of Life."

Each year, the National Kidney Foundation develops special public education programs aimed at increasing public awareness of the need for organ and tissue donation. Learning more about organ and tissue donation will help every American to make an informed decision about this important issue. Here are some facts everyone should know: more info

Locally, in Missouri, 1,966 people are waiting for a transplant. In Illinois, 4,896 people are waiting for a transplant.

April is National Donate Life Month

94,000 Americans Are Waiting

ST. LOUIS—To the 94,000 Americans on the national waiting list for life-saving organ transplants, a signature on a donor card is more than an autograph. It could mean the difference between living and dying.

This year, one of those thousands waiting could be your neighbor, co-worker or loved one. According to the National Kidney Foundation (NKF), every day 17 people die while waiting for a transplant. The time to act is now. April is National Donate Life Month and the foundation is asking every American to consider organ donation.

This year is particularly special as it marks the 50th anniversary of transplantation. Introduced in 1954, this medical miracle has since saved more than 100,000 lives. But, while the science and technology continue to improve, the number of organ donors still does not meet the growing need.

According to the foundation, all major religions support organ donation, there is no cost to the donor’s family and designated donors receive the best possible medical care. For a free donor card and brochure addressing the most commonly asked questions about organ donation, contact the NKF Serving Eastern Missouri & the Metro East at (314) 961-2828.

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