U - Organ Donation

[Animagi rock!]

Did a search, found nothing, etc, etc ...

I was reading chloemnets thread on lung transplants and it reminded me of the fact that only a few weeks ago I decided to become an organ donor. (Yay me!) I'd actually wanted to do it for a long time, but never got around to it before.
I was just wondering what you guys thought about this topic.

So here are a few questions to start off the thread. As always, you can answer as many or as few as you want, and if you have other questions to add, please do so.


Are you an organ donor?
Do you agree or disagree with donating organs/transplantations? Why?
Should people be encouraged to become donors, seeing as there are not enough organs around to meet the needs of everyone? If yes, how might this be achieved?
Should relatives be able to decide whether the organs should be donated if the person who has died has left no record of what he/she wanted to happen?



I guess I should answer my own questions now that I've started this thread ...

Are you an organ donor?
Yep

Do you agree or disagree with donating organs/transplantations? Why?
I think it's a great thing. If I can help someone after I die by giving them my organs, I'll gladly do so. Besides, if I'd ever be in a situation when I'd need an organ (*knocks on wood*) I'd want someone to help me, and I'd feel slightly hypocritical if I weren't ready to do the same for them.

Should people be encouraged to become donors, seeing as there are not enough organs around to meet the needs of everyone? If yes, how might this be achieved?
I think it would be great if more people donated organs, but I don't know how you could get them to do so. There have been discussions about whether you should pay people for becoming donors or whether people who are willing to donate an organ should have priority if they need one, but I don't think those are good ideas. I don't think that people should be bribed or threatened into doing something they don't want to do.

Should relatives be able to decide whether the organs should be donated if the person who has died has left no record of what he/she wanted to happen?
I guess it's the only way you can decide what should happen, even though it must be a huge burden for the relatives to have to make such a decision so shortly after a loved one has died. If I was a doctor I'd dread having to ask someone that.

[Emma]

Are you an organ donor? No, not at the present time.
Do you agree or disagree with donating organs/transplantations? I agree with donating. Why? It could save someone elses life.

Should people be encouraged to become donors, seeing as there are not enough organs around to meet the needs of everyone? I see this as a personal decision. If yes, how might this be achieved? I don't think that it should be mandatory.

Should relatives be able to decide whether the organs should be donated if the person who has died has left no record of what he/she wanted to happen? I would tend to think that if the person was young, then maybe the family could decide. I also think that it does depend on the situation...There are many different types of situations that have to be considered first.

[lxs234]

Are you an organ donor? No, not at the present time.
Do you agree or disagree with donating organs/transplantations? I agree with donating. Why? It could save someone elses life.

Should people be encouraged to become donors, seeing as there are not enough organs around to meet the needs of everyone? I see this as a personal decision. If yes, how might this be achieved? I don't think that it should be mandatory.

Should relatives be able to decide whether the organs should be donated if the person who has died has left no record of what he/she wanted to happen? I would tend to think that if the person was young, then maybe the family could decide. I also think that it does depend on the situation...There are many different types of situations that have to be considered first.


You pretty much wrote exactly my opinions on the subject are, so there's really no point in me writing it again.
I think donating organs is good, since if someone's life is over, you can help someone else.

[PadfootBlack]

I'm all for organ donations. It shouldn't be mandatory, by any means, since many religions have something against it for some reason. However, it should be encouraged. People around the world are just sitting around waiting for organ transplants, but not enough people are donating. That's just wrong.

On a similar note, recently there's been a lot of talk about using bodies for science. As long as they use my dead body for something good, that will actually help humanity in some way or another, they can do whatever they want with it. The Army wants to test body armor to protect soldiers, I'm all for it. Just as long as they treat my body with due respect after it's all over.

[Tane]

* Are you an organ donor?

No I am not.

* Do you agree or disagree with donating organs/transplantations? Why?

Yes I agree as it could save someone's life in the future. I am thinking about donating my organs after I have died.

* Should people be encouraged to become donors, seeing as there are not enough organs around to meet the needs of everyone? If yes, how might this be achieved?

I think people should be told the facts and be allowed to make up that decision for themselves.

* Should relatives be able to decide whether the organs should be donated if the person who has died has left no record of what he/she wanted to happen?

No because if there is no record then ten to one the person has decided not to donate there organs.

[Mireille]

Are you an organ donor? No, nor will I ever be one.

Do you agree or disagree with donating organs/transplantations? Why?
I do agree with it dispite my answer above. Organs are something that can be transplanted and help someone you've never met before, or, you could help a relative.

Should people be encouraged to become donors, seeing as there are not enough organs around to meet the needs of everyone? If yes, how might this be achieved?

I believe it should be up to the individual holding the license or signing up for the donation of their organs if they should die. By offering the choice people can make up their own minds. And for some people who can't donate, like myself, we don't feel pressured or feel like bad people for deciding not to slap the donar sticker on our license.

Should relatives be able to decide whether the organs should be donated if the person who has died has left no record of what he/she wanted to happen?

That's a tough question to answer. For me, if the person is still a minor, the relatives should be able to decide whether or not to donate their organs, but if they are of age then it really should come from the person themselves. If they left no documented proof, then take it at face value that they do not wish to donate their organs.

[tizzy weasley]

Are you an organ donor?
Not right now

Do you agree or disagree with donating organs/transplantations? Why?
I agree, because it can save lives

Should people be encouraged to become donors, seeing as there are not enough organs around to meet the needs of everyone? If yes, how might this be achieved?
Yes, because possibly more people that have diseases that affect the organs can live, if say someone dies in a car accident and none of their organs are crushed or something.

Should relatives be able to decide whether the organs should be donated if the person who has died has left no record of what he/she wanted to happen?
I think so. I don't have the best explaination for it. I mean, I don't have a driver's license yet, and even if I haven't talked to my folks about it, I think they would have the best decision.

[Aranel]

1.Are you an organ donor?
Yeah
2.Do you agree or disagree with donating organs/transplantations? Why?
I agree with it. I like the idea that if I die, and my organs are still healthy enough to be used, that they could benefit someone and give them a second chance.
3.Should people be encouraged to become donors, seeing as there are not enough organs around to meet the needs of everyone? If yes, how might this be achieved?
I think people should be encouraged, but definately not forced. I am not sure how it's done everywhere else in the word, but here, in Aust. when you apply for your licence, there is an option for organ donation. I think that this is a pretty good method. Maybe there should be something done to promote it more though
4.Should relatives be able to decide whether the organs should be donated if the person who has died has left no record of what he/she wanted to happen?
I'm not sure about this. I really can't answer it.

[Wab]

If you decide to donate it's not enough to tick the box. In Australia the final decision comes down to relatives who obviously aren't in the soundest emotional state. So it's imperitive that if you want to donate you make your wishes clear to the people who will have the final say.

[haycheng]

Are you an organ donor?
No yet. I have wanted to sign the form for awhile but always forgot when I have the chance. I did talk with my parents about it.
Do you agree or disagree with donating organs/transplantations? Why?
It is a great thing. My body will be uselss to me when I leave the physical world anyway.

Should people be encouraged to become donors, seeing as there are not enough organs around to meet the needs of everyone? If yes, how might this be achieved?
I think everyone should be donor automately. If you want the way out, you can sign a form or your relatives objection. Some people are like me, just never have a chance to actually sign the paper.

Should relatives be able to decide whether the organs should be donated if the person who has died has left no record of what he/she wanted to happen?
They are the only one who can. Although it is sad for them to make such decision.

[hesdead-dealwithit]

I am an organ donor. (Or, more precisely, will be.)

Personally, I see no reason why I shouldn't be one. When you're dead, you're dead, and you care as much about your body and life and yourself as you did before you were born.

Declining to give organs while alive I can understand. But when you're dead, you can save multiple lives. And it doesn't harm you at all.

[Dedalus Diggle]

Okay, so I was renewing my drivers license and the trooper asks "Do you want to be an organ donor?" and I said "Well not just yet." Troopers have no sense of humor at all.

That really happened. Finally I got it sorted out and I'm marked as an organ donor. If somehow I need them after I'm dead, then the Big Guy can make it so. Otherwise give 'em to those who need 'em here. I've also given 20 gallons of blood.

[DrummerboyDT]

Are you an organ donor?

Uh huh

Do you agree or disagree with donating organs/transplantations? Why?

I agree with donating organs because if you're dead, you can't use them anyway.

Should people be encouraged to become donors, seeing as there are not enough organs around to meet the needs of everyone? If yes, how might this be achieved?

I think commercials showing the common sense of the situation would help. My aunt died at 29 years-old because she was waiting for a kidney for the right blood type. Unfortunately, there were no kidneys for her and she died of kidney poisoning.

Should relatives be able to decide whether the organs should be donated if the person who has died has left no record of what he/she wanted to happen?

Yes. If you can decide to pull the plug, you should decide to help save someone else's life.

[OrbitingElle]

I am not an organ donor, nor do I plan to become one. I have some beliefs that many people consider odd or cruel, and I'm still fine tuning some of them. I seem to be very long-winded today, but I'll try to be brief.

Our society today is obsessed with curing disease, but they forget something very important: if no one died, where would we put everyone? People die for a reason. It's natural selection, it's survival of the fittest, and whether we like it or not, death is a very important part of life. Therefore, I think that taking measures to lengthen people's lives is a very bad idea. (I admit to being hypocritical, though. I have a hard time thinking about it in terms of people I love, rather than just the anonymous masses. Like I said-fine tuning.)

I think QUALITY of life is much more important than QUANTITY of years. Would I donate my retinas to someone who was blinded in an accident? Yes. Would I donate my liver to a 70 year old woman? No. But since there's probably no way to really specify if it's a yes or no once I'm dead, I'm leaving it at a general no.

[OrbitingElle]

I forgot to mention donating to medical science in my last post. I found the perfect solution that will help people out without going against any of my beliefs: The Forensic Anthropology Center at The University of Tennessee.

http://web.utk.edu/~anthrop/index.htm

For those of you who, like me, are addicted to true crime shows, this may prove very interesting. They study rates of decay, the effect of weather and time, etc. It may sound greusome, but it really does help solve crimes. I'd like to know that the knowledge they gained from studying me might help bring a killer to justice some day in the future.

[MotherBear1975]

Are you an organ donor? Yeppers
Do you agree or disagree with donating organs/transplantations? Agree. Why? I'm certainly not gonna need 'em anymore, they might as well be given to someone who needs 'em!
Should people be encouraged to become donors, seeing as there are not enough organs around to meet the needs of everyone? Not sure about that one. if you start encoursging it... whats to stop a person from offing someone just to spped up the organ donation for a friend/loved one? Sick.... but possible. If "everyone" were doing it, they could just kill at random. If yes, how might this be achieved?
Should relatives be able to decide whether the organs should be donated if the person who has died has left no record of what he/she wanted to happen? If ya got it on your Drivers License, you left a record of your wishes. Your family should respect your wishes.

[Wab]

It's natural selection, it's survival of the fittest, and whether we like it or not, death is a very important part of life.

Taken as written you would deny any treatment to anyone.

[totalmuggle]

no im not a donor because if i get a transplant( im hoping for 2 lungs and maybe a heart to go with it- the heart part is not listed on unos yet but the lungs are)
i cant be donor(plus i had cancer and thats also a no-go for donation).

i of couse agree with organ donation.

i thnk that everyone should be a donor ( excluding people with things like AIDS and cancer that can spread) it should be done because so many people just like me with lives ahead of them are dying and thats not right! whats the point of having perfectly good organs go to complete waste rotting in the ground? I WOULD ALSO LIKE TO ADD TO PEOPLE FEARS. WHEN YOUR DYING PEOPLE WORRY THERE NOT GOING TO SAVE YOU IF YOUR A DONOR! WELL IF THEY LET YOUR BODY LOSE FUNCTION AND LET YOU DIE THEN YOUR ORGANS WOULD BE USELLES! THEY HAVE TO TAKE EXTRA CARE OF DONORS SO THAT THEIR ORGANS ARE IN GOOD SHAPE! CANT GIVE A DYING PERSON DYING ORGANS- YOU GET THE SAME OUTCOME!

[totalmuggle]

I am not an organ donor, nor do I plan to become one. I have some beliefs that many people consider odd or cruel, and I'm still fine tuning some of them. I seem to be very long-winded today, but I'll try to be brief.

Our society today is obsessed with curing disease, but they forget something very important: if no one died, where would we put everyone? People die for a reason. It's natural selection, it's survival of the fittest, and whether we like it or not, death is a very important part of life. Therefore, I think that taking measures to lengthen people's lives is a very bad idea. (I admit to being hypocritical, though. I have a hard time thinking about it in terms of people I love, rather than just the anonymous masses. Like I said-fine tuning.)

I think QUALITY of life is much more important than QUANTITY of years. Would I donate my retinas to someone who was blinded in an accident? Yes. Would I donate my liver to a 70 year old woman? No. But since there's probably no way to really specify if it's a yes or no once I'm dead, I'm leaving it at a general no.

even if at death you liver was donated it wouldent go to anyone 70- thats to old to get on the list! and for people like me with cystic fibrosis waking up every morning without choking would be like heaven on earth itself! i think you just cruel and heartless! your letting ME die! your righting this to a girl who is in dying need of organs and syaing that i- the girl who hasent even grown old enough to get a job sould just die! because if you get on the lung list you have less than 2 years to live! your are unbeliveably cruel! and your alsom saYING that i the girl born with no say in having cystic fibrosis should be the first to die so that the strong get the world to yourselfs! i never chose this but i cant go back and undo this! ive never grown up and your saying its alright ti die without a good fight! i would give the world for one good breath and you try to take that away from me?


AND I WOULD LIKE TO ADD THAT ORGAN TRANSPLANTS NORMALLY REJECT IN ABOUT 5 YEARS SO YOU DONT HAVE TO WORRY ABOUT US STINIKING AROUND THE WORLD! :sad: :upset:

[Kaonashi]

Are you an organ donor? Sure am.

Do you agree or disagree with donating organs/transplantations? I agreew ith it. There are so many people who need organs, and since I would be dead, I certainly won't need them, so why not?

Should people be encouraged to become donors, seeing as there are not enough organs around to meet the needs of everyone?
Personal decision, definitely.

Should relatives be able to decide whether the organs should be donated if the person who has died has left no record of what he/she wanted to happen? That's a hard one to answer, as everyone's situation is different. The best thing to do is if you want to make sure that your organs are donated to mention it to family members and let them know your wishes.

[OrbitingElle]

even if at death you liver was donated it wouldent go to anyone 70- thats to old to get on the list! and for people like me with cystic fibrosis waking up every morning without choking would be like heaven on earth itself! i think you just cruel and heartless! your letting ME die! your righting this to a girl who is in dying need of organs and syaing that i- the girl who hasent even grown old enough to get a job sould just die! because if you get on the lung list you have less than 2 years to live! your are unbeliveably cruel! and your alsom saYING that i the girl born with no say in having cystic fibrosis should be the first to die so that the strong get the world to yourselfs! i never chose this but i cant go back and undo this! ive never grown up and your saying its alright ti die without a good fight! i would give the world for one good breath and you try to take that away from me?


AND I WOULD LIKE TO ADD THAT ORGAN TRANSPLANTS NORMALLY REJECT IN ABOUT 5 YEARS SO YOU DONT HAVE TO WORRY ABOUT US STINIKING AROUND THE WORLD! :sad: :upset:

I did not write what I wrote to hurt your feelings or to imply that my life is any more important than yours. The question was asked and I answered honestly. You and I are in very different places, and it's only easy for me to make these statements because I am not in a position like you are.

I have generally said that extreme measures should be taken only in certain cases, such as women with young children to raise, but I don't think that makes me cruel. I'm sorry that your horribly unfortunate circumstances have put us on opposite sides of this fence. I really didn't mean to hurt your feelings.

[totalmuggle]

its ok!

[Bee]

Are you an organ donor?
No... how do I become one? Do I have to be over 18?

Do you agree or disagree with donating organs/transplantations? Why?
I definitely agree! It saves peoples lives, and, to put it quite frankly, YOU DON'T NEED A LIVER AFTER YOU'RE DEAD.

Should people be encouraged to become donors, seeing as there are not enough organs around to meet the needs of everyone? If yes, how might this be achieved?
I guess so... I want to become one because I watch a lot of medical shows and want to be a doctor, and I've seen so many cases where tan emergency transplant is needed and an organ just isn't there. It's horrible.

Should relatives be able to decide whether the organs should be donated if the person who has died has left no record of what he/she wanted to happen?
I want to say yes, because a lot of the time people would've liked to be one and just never got the certification saying officially they want their organs donated, but what about the few cases where the persons wishes were NOT to donate organs and the family never knew about it? I hate to say it, but if the correct documentation isn't there, don't go ahead. I know they're dead and don't know about it... but still... that's like stealing pennies off a dead mans eyes!

[JofpGallagher]

Are you an organ donor?

Yes, I am.

Do you agree or disagree with donating organs/transplantations? Why?

I completely agree because it safes lives. There are two situations where the donor can survive, and when the donor has passed away. A very close friend of mine is alive thanks to his brother who gave one of his kidneys to him (This is a case where the donor do not need to be death to give an organ).

Should people be encouraged to become donors, seeing as there are not enough organs around to meet the needs of everyone? If yes, how might this be achieved?

As a matter of fact I think there are campaigns where people are encouraged to become organ donors after death. However, I think it is a personal decision that has to be respected, and not criticized. I became a donor simply because when I die I will no longer use my body for anything. I rather prefer that someone may use a part of me (whether for science studies or to save a life) than feeding worms. But quite honestly (and it may sound morbid) I don’t care in the most minimum where or how my cadaver is going to be used once I passed away. I’ll not be there. :shrug:

Should relatives be able to decide whether the organs should be donated if the person who has died has left no record of what he/she wanted to happen?

I would say yes because I don’t think that the death one is going to care. He’s death and we cannot ask him anything anymore. :shrug:

[totalmuggle]

Are you an organ donor?
No... how do I become one? Do I have to be over 18?

Do you agree or disagree with donating organs/transplantations? Why?
I definitely agree! It saves peoples lives, and, to put it quite frankly, YOU DON'T NEED A LIVER AFTER YOU'RE DEAD.

Should people be encouraged to become donors, seeing as there are not enough organs around to meet the needs of everyone? If yes, how might this be achieved?
I guess so... I want to become one because I watch a lot of medical shows and want to be a doctor, and I've seen so many cases where tan emergency transplant is needed and an organ just isn't there. It's horrible.

Should relatives be able to decide whether the organs should be donated if the person who has died has left no record of what he/she wanted to happen?
I want to say yes, because a lot of the time people would've liked to be one and just never got the certification saying officially they want their organs donated, but what about the few cases where the persons wishes were NOT to donate organs and the family never knew about it? I hate to say it, but if the correct documentation isn't there, don't go ahead. I know they're dead and don't know about it... but still... that's like stealing pennies off a dead mans eyes!

if you want to become an organ donor just talk to your family about yuor wishes and fill it out on your lisence

[SilverStar]

Are you an organ donor? of course!!

Do you agree or disagree with donating organs/transplantations? Why?
It is awesome. Because I could be saving someone's life and my stuff will be useless to me.

Should people be encouraged to become donors, seeing as there are not enough organs around to meet the needs of everyone? If yes, how might this be achieved? Absolutely. Commercials, talking about it in school.

Should relatives be able to decide whether the organs should be donated if the person who has died has left no record of what he/she wanted to happen? Yes-they are the only ones who can, obviously. And they should say yes, although it's a bit of a shock, and that's why most people say no.

BE AN ORGAN DONOR!!!!! You look the same after and you're dead anyway; plus you're saving someone's life (think of if it was you or a loved one).

[OrbitingElle]

Are you an organ donor?
No... how do I become one? Do I have to be over 18?

In America, they ask you when you get your driver's license and the answer goes on there, so that anyone who may find you will know your wishes, should anything happen to you.

I bet you could call any hospital and ask what Canada's policies are.

[Auror Williamson]

Are you an organ donor?

Not yet.

Do you agree or disagree with donating organs/transplantations? Why?

For the most part, I agree with the donations of organs. It's when those healthy organs go to alcoholics or druggies that I don't support it.

Should people be encouraged to become donors, seeing as there are not enough organs around to meet the needs of everyone? If yes, how might this be achieved?

I don't see why not -- saving the life of another is a good thing. This is already being achieved through advertising and awareness campaigns.


Should relatives be able to decide whether the organs should be donated if the person who has died has left no record of what he/she wanted to happen?


Absolutely not. If the person did not tell anyone what they wanted to have done with their internals, or this is no record of the person giving consent, then in no way should anyone decide whether or not my insides go to another.





Like I said, I'm all for giving organs to people who genuinely need them, but when it is a druggie or alcoholic that is dying, and is in desperate need of my liver, my message to them is: "Sorry! You decided to mess your own body up by doing drugs and drinking excessively! If you excuse me, there or more deserving people with natural ailments that need it more than you do."

[Furienna]

Are you an organ donor?
No way.

Do you agree or disagree with donating organs/transplantations? Why?
I disagree. I don't want people to dig inside my body when I'm dead and take out my organs and I don't want anyone else's organs, blood or marrow either, no matter how sick I get. If someone wants to donate his or her organs, fine, do it, and if someone then wants it, fine, take it, but I think it's digusting. My blood, my organs and everything inside my body is my own and I don't want anyone else to get it and I don't want to get anyone else's either.

Should people be encouraged to become donors, seeing as there are not enough organs around to meet the needs of everyone? If yes, how might this be achieved?
Well, I certainly wouldn't approve of something like that.

Should relatives be able to decide whether the organs should be donated if the person who has died has left no record of what he/she wanted to happen?
What else could you do? But I think everyone, at least everyone off age, should have to tell the hospitals whether or not you are willing to donate anything in case you pass away. Having it on your driver's license is a great idea. I have a card in my vallet saying that I say no to donating my... everything, but I sure wonder if I shouldn't do something more too to really show where I stand.

[Kaonashi]

Furienna, they dig in you body anyway after you're dead, especially if they are not sure of how you died during an autospy (sp).

Auror: Isn't it a general rule that they don't give transplants to people who are actively alkies and drug users anyway? I remember there being a stink a while ago about some famous person somehow "jumping the list" and getting organs when they were still an alkie. If someone quit drinking or drugging a long time ago (before they got sick) and years down the line had to have a transplant I don't think I would mind as much. But someone still actively drinking and drugging? No way! The only thing they are going to do with the new part is still abuse it, so what's the point?

[OrbitingElle]

Furienna, they dig in you body anyway after you're dead, especially if they are not sure of how you died during an autospy (sp).

Very true. Even if you don't have an autopsy, at the very least your blood is drained and replaced with embalming fluid. Unpleasantness kind of goes along with dying.

[Furienna]

Furienna, they dig in you body anyway after you're dead, especially if they are not sure of how you died during an autospy (sp).


At least they won't take any organs out then, right? And what is an autospy?

[Wab]

At least they won't take any organs out then, right? And what is an autospy?

An autopsy/post mortem examination is conducted when a person dies in suspicious circumstances or unattend by a doctor.

Basically it involves the removal of tissue samples from all the major organs which are replaced somewhat randomly.

If the brain is examined it is usually placed in the abdominal cavity.

[Furienna]

The organs are replaced? You must mean relocated? Still, all my bodyparts would stick together in death and not be parted. And I wish I could make sure they wouldn't do that to my body. I would rather have my murderer escape, if I was murdered, than being examined like that after death.

[Kaonashi]

It's not exactly something that you have a choice in, especially if you died under strange circumstances, or not in a hospital.

[Furienna]

And that stinks. Why shouldn't you be able to say no to have your body examined after your death, no matter the circomstances? I think digging inside a dead human's body is somewhat a sacriledge. Leave the dead alone!

[Mireille]

*Points to thread title*
I would like to remind everyone that this thread is to be a discussion about organ donation and your feelings about the topic. Answering jutted off questions is ok, but please remain on topic. Thank you.

[Dedalus Diggle]

:D For all of you who say you favor organ donation, remember that blood is an organ which can be donated again and again and the body keeps replacing it. You only need to be over 16 years, over 110 lbs and meet a few other health screening tests. There is a critical need for it, and there is no adequate substitute for very many purposes. It usually only takes an hour and there is very little pain involved. PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE - people are just dying for your blood. :p

[Wab]

The Australian Red Cross won't let me donate because I was in Britain during the BSE scare.

[Animagi rock!]

I'd donate my blood too, but I weigh slightly under 110 lbs and have a low blood pressure, so they said they'd rather do without my blood than to have me faint on them. I'm not too sad about it because I'm not all too fond of needles :p .

[totalmuggle]

i cant dontate blood for 3 reasons

1. im under 110 ounds

2. im under the age to donate

3. transplant recipents cant donate

[star22]

Are you an organ donor?
Not yet, but I plan on becoming one soon.

Do you agree or disagree with donating organs/transplantations? Why?
I totally agree with it. It will save lives. I do not understand why people would not want to, but it is their choice. I mean, come on. When you are dead, you no longer need the organs. However, someone else does. Why does it really matter what happens with a dead body. Isn't the lives of others who are actually living and could die without it more important? Anyways, just something that I feel passionate about.

Should people be encouraged to become donors, seeing as there are not enough organs around to meet the needs of everyone? If yes, how might this be achieved?
Yes, people should be encouraged. Not forced, but encouraged. They should be told about how it saves lives. The rumors about it should be dispelled. Doctors should talk about it with their patients. Family members should talk about it with other family members. Friends with friends.

Should relatives be able to decide whether the organs should be donated if the person who has died has left no record of what he/she wanted to happen?
I am not really sure. I would like to say to just give the organs, but that is probably not very wise. I guess I would say that the relatives would know the person better. One would hope that their decision would be based on what the person would want.

Sorry if I came across a little snarky there. I am very passionate about the topic. It is something that I strongly believe in. There are so many dying people out there who could be saved with the organs. Why not do it? Are there really any good reasons not to? Anyways, my thoughts.

[Furienna]

I want my bodyparts to stick together even after death, thank you very much. And I don't want anybody else's bodyparts or blood inside me either. I think I have very good reasons not to donate my organs.

[star22]

What are those?

Sorry, I just don't understand this. You are dead. You do not need them any more. Why withold them from someone who will die without them?

Not meaning to be rude. I honestly do not understand why anyone would not want to.

[Furienna]

My reasons are what I said earlier in that post, that I want my body-parts to stick together even after death.

[star22]

Yes, but why? Why do you want your organs to stick together? Why does it matter after you are dead?

[Furienna]

It would feel so terrible if they started taking my organs out and mendle with them. As I said earlier, I think doing like that with a body is somewhat of a sacriledge. I just don't like the idea of it.

[star22]

Okay. I understand now. Personally, I believe that when you are dead, it does not really matter, so the least you can do is help someone. I don't believe that the body is the whole of us, and as a Christian, I believe that my body will be reserected at the last day anyways. Still, I get why you think that. Sorry for being snarky. I am kind of passionate on the topic.

[Furienna]

I can see you are, but so am I, but from the other side. And I really don't want to donate anything that's got my DNA in it and I don't want anything that's got anyone else's DNA in it, if you know what I mean.

[star22]

Yes, I know. I do understand. I may disagree, but I do understand. Lets just agree to disagree. I simply wanted to understand where you are coming from. Now I do. Thank you.

[totalmuggle]

JUST READ MY NEW SIG. and tell me if you think i agree with organ donation!

[Kaonashi]

I can see you are, but so am I, but from the other side. And I really don't want to donate anything that's got my DNA in it and I don't want anything that's got anyone else's DNA in it, if you know what I mean.

Okay, I'm glad you understand Star, because I sure don't. i'm not trying to be snarky either Furienna, but can you explain that? is it because of religious beliefs? Or, if you are the one that would be getting the transplant, because it's alien to you and not a part of you and the forign DNA will somehow take over your body? What if it's your child that needs a new kidney or something and you are the only DNA matchup? Would you let your own child die rather than help?

Once again, not trying to be snarky. Just trying to understand.

[totalmuggle]

Okay, I'm glad you understand Star, because I sure don't. i'm not trying to be snarky either Furienna, but can you explain that? is it because of religious beliefs? Or, if you are the one that would be getting the transplant, because it's alien to you and not a part of you and the forign DNA will somehow take over your body? What if it's your child that needs a new kidney or something and you are the only DNA matchup? Would you let your own child die rather than help?

Once again, not trying to be snarky. Just trying to understand.



well i think that when people are faced with different things they might :"see the light"

[Pegasus]

Are you an organ donor?
Yes
Do you agree or disagree with donating organs/transplantations? Why?
Yes. It gives people a second chance at life. Just because your liver has rendered itself useless doesn't mean the rest of your body and mind are done living.
Should people be encouraged to become donors, seeing as there are not enough organs around to meet the needs of everyone? If yes, how might this be achieved?
Yes, definitely, though, obviously, no one can be forced. I think the campaign I've seen around--I don't know whether it's America or just Utah, probably the latter--is good. It's simply a TV/billboard campaign that informs and reminds.
Should relatives be able to decide whether the organs should be donated if the person who has died has left no record of what he/she wanted to happen?
Yes. My brother died a sudden and tragic death when he was seventeen--he was hit by a car on a crosswalk, crossing the street to the front of his high school--and we at least felt better knowing that the parts of his body that weren't damaged could go to someone else. We got a letter from someone later, thanking us for the donation of part of his eye that restored sight to the living. I'm sure it made my deceased brother happy.

[totalmuggle]

well nobys posting on this! post people post! :upset:

[Kaonashi]

Congrats on the good news, totalmuggle! I trust you are feeling okay? :D

[Furienna]

Okay, I'm glad you understand Star, because I sure don't. i'm not trying to be snarky either Furienna, but can you explain that? is it because of religious beliefs? Or, if you are the one that would be getting the transplant, because it's alien to you and not a part of you and the forign DNA will somehow take over your body? What if it's your child that needs a new kidney or something and you are the only DNA matchup? Would you let your own child die rather than help? Once again, not trying to be snarky. Just trying to understand.

Well, since I don't belong to any traditional religion, being "just" a god-fearer or a noahide, I can't say it's a downright religious thing, but I wouldn't feel like a whole individual if I had someone else's DNA in my body. I really don't know if I would like someone else's DNA inside my child either, if I had one, unless he or she was old enough to really understand all this and then be able to make his or her own choice about this. I wouldn't like to donate a kidney to a family member either. But then, I wonder if anyone in my family really would, I'm not sure. I'll ask them.

[Wab]

Of course when you are pregnant, ot just have unprotected sex, you have someone else's DNA in you.

[Furienna]

Oh, that's true, I thought about it myself, but it doesn't feel as disgusting to me as having transplantations, I don't know why, but I will try to elaborate. If I have sex with a man, yes, I get his DNA inside me, through his sperm, but unless he makes me pregnant, it only stays inside my vagina and uterus. OK, I get his DNA into my blood if he makes me pregnant, but still, it's my child and it's half me too, and if I can have a baby with a man, it wouldn't feel too bad having his DNA inside me, and I would have to if I got pregnant... OK, I sound a little hypocrytic over here, I admit it, but that's just the way I feel... It doesn't feel as bad having my baby's blood mixing with my blood as it feels having blood pumped into my arm at a hospital.

[Tane]

Oh, that's true, I thought about it myself, but it doesn't feel as disgusting to me as having transplantations, I don't know why, but I will try to elaborate. If I have sex with a man, yes, I get his DNA inside me, through his sperm, but unless he makes me pregnant, it only stays inside my vagina and uterus. OK, I get his DNA into my blood if he makes me pregnant, but still, it's my child and it's half me too, and if I can have a baby with a man, it wouldn't feel too bad having his DNA inside me, and I would have to if I got pregnant... OK, I sound a little hypocrytic over here, I admit it, but that's just the way I feel... It doesn't feel as bad having my baby's blood mixing with my blood as it feels having blood pumped into my arm at a hospital.

The thing is that no matter whether you turn to religion or not we all originated from two single lives and therefore all DNA is shared from a common ancestor, so why be so repulsed about accepting blood from someone.

I would donate my blood and the body parts that I can spare when alive if it gives life to someone else because I don't need all my organs to live. After death then I would donate what organs are fit enough to be transplanted, as I have no need for them.

Then again it is your choose and no one should take that right away from anyone. Some religions do see it as a sacrilege as well and I think there beliefs should be respected just as much as my own.

[Wab]

I'd be dead were it not for blood transfusions so I'm a fan.

[Dedalus Diggle]

I'd be dead were it not for blood transfusions so I'm a fan.

Makes a true believer, eh? :tu:

[Rowena Ravenclaw]

The thing is that no matter whether you turn to religion or not we all originated from two single lives and therefore all DNA is shared from a common ancestor, so why be so repulsed about accepting blood from someone.

Moreover, there's only an itty-bit of difference in DNA between humans and other primates. The differences between individual humans are much smaller. So technically, you've already got such a high percentage of someone else's DNA, a miniscule amount more shouldn't matter that much.

Anyway, to answer the original questions, yes, I'm an organ donor. I figure I won't need the darn things when I'm dead, so if someone else can use them, great. I don't know that I'd go out of my way to donate, say, bone marrow unless I knew someone who desperately needed it and there was a chance I might be compatible, but I'd be open to the idea.

With someone who hasn't made his or her wishes clear before death, though, I think the family has to err on the side of the person not wanting it. Cases like that just emphasize the importance of having things like "living wills" so such confusion doesn't happen, though.

[Wab]

Makes a true believer, eh? :tu:

Eliminates the grey areas.

[Pegasus]

I want my bodyparts to stick together even after death, thank you very much. And I don't want anybody else's bodyparts or blood inside me either.
I, too, would be dead if it were not for blood transfusions. The baby I gave birth to when I hemorrhaged and nearly died would be motherless. I've always wanted to give blood to return the favor, since the only way of doing that is to pass it on. I can't, though, because my blood pressure is so low that that probably have to give it right back. All I can do is encourage everyone else to do it who can, to make up for those of us who can't and really want to.
I would echo what the posts before me have said--You might feel differently about organ donation if you or your child suddenly needed a kidney.

[Charmed]

I'm still a bit hesitant about organ donation. Don't get me wrong I do applaud all those who wish to make that choice. On my liscence it says I'm an organ donor but I still don't know where my choices lie.
In Australia the rate of organ donors is 1.5 to 1000 deaths thats behind Spain, Belgium, Austria, Portugal, France and the USA but ahead of Italy, the UK, Germany, Netherlands, Sweden and New Zealand.
An idea I'd like to see come into discussion in Australia is this-Some countries, like Spain, Austria, Belgium and France, have the opt-out system (also known as presumed consent) where everyone is considered a donor unless they make it known they do not want to be. In most countries with the opt-out system, family consent is also sought. In Austria, a person who refuses to be a donor who requires a transplant is automatically placed at the end of the waiting list.
Also the reason why organ donation is so low is because Organ and tissue donation are medically possible only after brain death, which is in only one per cent of deaths. This occurs in a hospital with the body on a ventilator. There are strict laws governing what brain death means and death has to be certified by two independent doctors. Medical tests clearly show the difference between brain death and a coma.
To give you an idea about waiting lists here is one for Australia-
As at January 2, 2004, there were 1824 people awaiting a transplant.

The breakdown is as follows:
Kidney: 1488
Heart: 65
Liver: 110
Lung: 124
Pancreas: 29
Pancreas islets: 8

I guess I am pro organ donation. Anything that can help to give somebody that extra chance-what a special feeling.

[Tane]

I'm still a bit hesitant about organ donation. Don't get me wrong I do applaud all those who wish to make that choice. On my liscence it says I'm an organ donor but I still don't know where my choices lie.
In Australia the rate of organ donors is 1.5 to 1000 deaths thats behind Spain, Belgium, Austria, Portugal, France and the USA but ahead of Italy, the UK, Germany, Netherlands, Sweden and New Zealand.
An idea I'd like to see come into discussion in Australia is this-Some countries, like Spain, Austria, Belgium and France, have the opt-out system (also known as presumed consent) where everyone is considered a donor unless they make it known they do not want to be. In most countries with the opt-out system, family consent is also sought. In Austria, a person who refuses to be a donor who requires a transplant is automatically placed at the end of the waiting list.
Also the reason why organ donation is so low is because Organ and tissue donation are medically possible only after brain death, which is in only one per cent of deaths. This occurs in a hospital with the body on a ventilator. There are strict laws governing what brain death means and death has to be certified by two independent doctors. Medical tests clearly show the difference between brain death and a coma.
To give you an idea about waiting lists here is one for Australia-
As at January 2, 2004, there were 1824 people awaiting a transplant.

The breakdown is as follows:
Kidney: 1488
Heart: 65
Liver: 110
Lung: 124
Pancreas: 29
Pancreas islets: 8

I guess I am pro organ donation. Anything that can help to give somebody that extra chance-what a special feeling.

I the figures would be much higher than that so I am quite suprised.

Yes I am all for organ donation because there is no harm is giving someone else a chance. Not only that but the more people donate the less chance of organs being placed on the black market. The organ black market is something I do disagree with because life should not be judged on finances and people should not steal what is not there’s to have.

[Rowena Ravenclaw]

The organ black market is something I do disagree with because life should not be judged on finances and people should not steal what is not there’s to have.

This may be taking the thread a bit astray (though I suppose it falls under "how can people be encouraged to donate organs"), but how would people feel about a legal monetary reward system for becoming an organ donor, where the donor or his or her family would receive a small amount in exchange for the organs?

[Tane]

This may be taking the thread a bit astray (though I suppose it falls under "how can people be encouraged to donate organs"), but how would people feel about a legal monetary reward system for becoming an organ donor, where the donor or his or her family would receive a small amount in exchange for the organs?

I am not sure about that because who would pay for such an organ, the patient or the hospital itself. It might bring into question a two tear system in the UK anyway because those who where poor might not be able to find the cost and the NHS is crippled by financial debt as it is. I not sure how medical treatment is paid for over there so I cannot really comment on that but in Britain the question of where the extra money would be found to fund such a program would come up in debate.

[Pegasus]

That's why they leave money out of it. There are just too many moral questions. Weirdos desperate for money start selling off their organs while they're still living. Aagh!

[Ava]

* Are you an organ donor? No, not at the present time. But I'd like to.
* Do you agree or disagree with donating organs/transplantations?
Yes, I agree. I think it's a great and unselfish way of helping other people in the future. We have heard many inspiring stories about children or persons having a second chance at life because of this.
* Should people be encouraged to become donors, seeing as there are not enough organs around to meet the needs of everyone? Like many other things, this is a matter of personal choice.
* Should relatives be able to decide whether the organs should be donated if the person who has died has left no record of what he/she wanted to happen?
It's really a case to case basis. For example, can the family handle a decision like this since they are obviously in major grief? But I gues it's really okay, since the very thought of having the power to help someone in need in the middle of a very difficult situation is a very brave and wise decision.

[Amina]

* Are you an organ donor?

Yes, i'm on the register, although i don't carry a card, because the form i filled out had the card already taken off :rolleyes: students, eh?


* Do you agree or disagree with donating organs/transplantations? Why?

Yup, i don't need 'em after i'm dead - i only believe in teh soul and i want to be cremated anyhoo. i'm thinking of donating my body to science after i die too.

* Should people be encouraged to become donors, seeing as there are not enough organs around to meet the needs of everyone? If yes, how might this be achieved?

I think it should be encouraged from the point of view that i know a lot of people who would do it, but just never got around to it. if people don't want to, they shouldnt' be forced though - many people become very uncomfortable at the thought, and fair enough.

* Should relatives be able to decide whether the organs should be donated if the person who has died has left no record of what he/she wanted to happen?

mmmm, tricky. i suppose if they know well enough...but that would be hard to legislate. i think maybe it will have to stay as it is.

[busy91]

Are you an organ donor?
Nope, and will not be able to.

Do you agree or disagree with donating organs/transplantations? Why?
I agree. If medicine has advanced to the point where someone can be saved by donating an organ then we are moving a head as a people. We'd be moving even further a head if others are willing to give them up.

Should people be encouraged to become donors, seeing as there are not enough organs around to meet the needs of everyone? If yes, how might this be achieved?
Those who are healthy enough to donate should be encouraged. Perhaps they should get a first hand view of how it saves lives. Hate to say it, but using children as the 'selling' point in anything usually softens the hardest of hearts.

Should relatives be able to decide whether the organs should be donated if the person who has died has left no record of what he/she wanted to happen?
I don't think the family should over-ride the deceased's wishes to or not to donate. Some people actually try to do this.
If the deceased does not have any wishes in place then the family should have the right to make the decision. They should be encouraged to have the organs donated. I feel it is a violation to go ahead and donate organs without the family consent. Some religions do not believe in this.

[StephyJ_83]

I am all for it. My neighbor had a heart transplant, and it added ten years to his life. I'm grateful for those ten years, as is his family. Also, my cousin is a nurse, and there was an 18-month old boy waiting for a kidney transplant who died just before Thanksgiving. No kidneys were available for him. I have a wonderful blood type, so I am always getting calls about donating. My liver is over-active, so I have told my family that I will donate part of it (adults can be living donors because the liver grows, so surgeons take part of the adult's liver and put it in a child that needs a new liver, and then the liver grows with the child). My family says to save it in case any of my neices or nephews need it. If they don't, then I'll do it after I have kids of my own. I feel that there are other families out there that could be blessed by the generosity of another. I'm an organ donor and proud of it!

[Mirjam]

I am all for organ donation (just like blood or bone marrow). Unfortunately I cannot donate either as I have a chronic illness that I might pass on - that is why I am on the register and carry a card as a non-donator (is that a word?).

But I think that after our death we don't need our organs any longer and they can help others to live. So I can only encourage everyone who can donate to do so. It's so important! And so many people can be helped by only one person who donates organs!

[Simple Plan 42]

I've been thinking about this topic lately and I'm not so sure if I would want to be an organ doner. I mean, it would be nice to help someone else in need out, but I'm not sure if I would want my body in that shape when I die. I guess I could get creamated.


1. Will you give be an organ doner once you die? Why or why not?
2. How do you feel on this topic?
3. If you were going to die, would you accept someone else's organ? Even if it wasn't very healthy? Well, I guess you wouldn't have a choice, they'd probably just put it in you! ;)

[Dedalus Diggle]

I've been thinking about this topic lately and I'm not so sure if I would want to be an organ doner. I mean, it would be nice to help someone else in need out, but I'm not sure if I would want my body in that shape when I die. I guess I could get creamated.


1. Will you give be an organ doner once you die? Why or why not?
2. How do you feel on this topic?
3. If you were going to die, would you accept someone else's organ? Even if it wasn't very healthy? Well, I guess you wouldn't have a choice, they'd probably just put it in you! ;)
Hi, there's already an 'Organ Donation' thread. There are lots of good comments and discussion there. I give blood regularly, which is pretty similar. I just completed my 19th gallon of blood donations.

At the drivers license office, the state trooper (that's who does it here) asked if I wanted to be an organ donor. I said "not yet." Troopers have no sense of humor.

[Cuthbert]

What if we could sell our organs, such as a kidney? Do you all think that that should be made legal?

Would you sell your kidney?

At what price?

[DougJohnston]

* Are you an organ donor?
Not yet but when I get older I will get "signed up" or whatever you are required to do.
* Do you agree or disagree with donating organs/transplantations? Why?
I think it is a great idea and I agree totally. A very good friend of mine wouldn't be alive today if he hadn't recieved his heart transplant.
* Should people be encouraged to become donors, seeing as there are not enough organs around to meet the needs of everyone? If yes, how might this be achieved?
While I think encouragment is good, its their bodies and they may choose to do whatever they like with it. No one should be forced to do something they dont want and their wishes should be granted.
* Should relatives be able to decide whether the organs should be donated if the person who has died has left no record of what he/she wanted to happen?
Tough question...a part wants to say yes, a part wants to say no...:shrug:

[Taleeya]

* Are you an organ donor? Yes... and I hope every usable part possible can be given away. How selfish would I be to keep something lifesaving (or at least life-improving (like corneas) that I will have no use for?

* Do you agree or disagree with donating organs/transplantations?
Of course I agree. Im actually kind of ticked off, because I have asked 3 of my friends if they are, 1 said she couldn't be bothered filling out the form, another said that she won't because a doctor wouldn't try very hard to save her life if she was near death (because he would get money for the operation or something... I have no idea WHAT she is talking about... but maybe that happens in the States or something but not in Canada) and the other said that he is worried he won't be able to make it into Heaven if his body isn't complete (ummm yeah whatever). I mean its people's own choice if they want to or not... I just think those are stupid reasons.

* Should people be encouraged to become donors, seeing as there are not enough organs around to meet the needs of everyone? Yes, I think people should be ENCOURAGED to do it, but still have the choice up to them. But I would prefer an OPT-OUT kind of system, instead of the system we where I live, it was also recently changed (and not promoted enough) from stickers on driver's licenses (which are now invalid) to a form you have to fill out and send off.

* Should relatives be able to decide whether the organs should be donated if the person who has died has left no record of what he/she wanted to happen? Yes, if there is no record. But they shouldn't be allowed to dispute wills or anything.

But I do have to point out that in some cases, Im kinda like.. really.. should this person be getting something... There was a thing where I live where this guy was waiting for transplants of a heart, and TWO other organs, and he was 60 years old. I know this may sound cruel, but I would prefer my organs go to someone younger, who hasn't had a chance really to live, and is more likely to survive a transplant. AND I would kinda be ticked if my organs went to save someone who's condition was brought on by themselves (like by smoking or drinking) instead of someone who was born with a problem.

And Cuthbert, No I don't think organs should be bought and sold( (it already happens...but)

[Amina]

Cuthbert - while perhaps a monetary incentive may persuade more people to 'donate' (i put that in inverted commas because it ceases to really be donation...) i don't like it for several reasons:

1. The basic moral reason...it feels wrong to be demanding money for it. I don't know why, it just does. I think it's linked to my feelings that medical treatment shouldn't be a business, but something provided for all.

2. Linked to that, the NHS (in this country, the situation in other place might be different and perhaps in countries with private-only healthcare, the idea of medical care as a business isn't so strange) has enough trouble with money and i don't think they would appreciate the extra cost of having to pay for organs!

The whole point of organ donation is to do something selfless for someone who needs them to live after your death. If you are only going to do that for money...it just seems wrong.

[Cuthbert]

I totally agree Amina.

I am an organ donor myself and, of course, do agree with donation. I think people should be encouraged, but not forced into donation. If no records are left, relatives should not be able to decide what to do, but neither should they be able to decide if records are left.

[Virtuousdream]

Are you an organ donor?
Yes, I'm also signed to be a blood doner.

Do you agree or disagree with donating organs/transplantations? Why?
I have very strong views about this. I do not see the point in wanting to let healthy organs go to waste when you don't need them whren they could save someone's life. You''re most likely going to be cut open anyway, so why not use your organs for the good of someone else?

Should people be encouraged to become donors, seeing as there are not enough organs around to meet the needs of everyone? If yes, how might this be achieved?
Yes, it's not encouraged enough. TV adverts, programs, media promotion as well as doctors forms are a good way. In the UK the Cencus promotes it, along with doctors when you join a new practise.

Should relatives be able to decide whether the organs should be donated if the person who has died has left no record of what he/she wanted to happen?
I'd have to say no. Purely, in the case of not knowing, this person may have very strong views against organ donation. On the other hand, they may have very strong wishes for it, but out of repspect I'd leave it to be on the safe side, because you aren't them. Some of the family may oppose organ donation like my dad and sister do, where the other half like my mother and grandma, and of course myself, support it.

[Wab]

The best way to ensure your intentions are carried out are to let your loved ones know that you want to donate.

[Raven_Girly]

Are you an organ donor?
Yes

Do you agree or disagree with donating organs/transplantations? Why?
I do agree with organ donation. If I'm not going to need my organs, I don't see why I shouldn't give them to someone who does. If I was ever in a situation where I needed the organs or blood from another person to survive, I would gladly accept. Wouldn't you feel totally mean if you couldn't pass the favour on? Just think: what if someone you loved was in need of an organ - your child, grandchild, mother, father, brother, sister, Aunt, Uncle or whatever - would you want to able to help? By donating your organs, you could save someone's life. I think that is a very special and beautiful thing; an invaluable gift. It's like even though you are gone, you can still do good for the world. How cool is that?

Should people be encouraged to become donors, seeing as there are not enough organs around to meet the needs of everyone? If yes, how might this be achieved?
Yes! I'm not sure how it can be done, but people should definitley be encouraged to donate organs. Although I think it should be encouraged, people shouldn't be pressured to donate, because they should feel free to do whatever they wish with their bodies.

Should relatives be able to decide whether the organs should be donated if the person who has died has left no record of what he/she wanted to happen?
I guess so. Thye are the ones who know us best, so I think they would be able to decide what it is we would have wanted.

[Arwen42]

Are you an organ donor?
Not at the moment.

Do you agree or disagree with donating organs/transplantations?
Yes

Why?
It can save peoples lives. You can make friends and family happier because a close person of them will be saved because of the donation.

Should people be encouraged to become donors, seeing as there are not enough organs around to meet the needs of everyone?
Well, I think there should be more orientation about donating organs. And I do believe it's a personal choice.

If yes, how might this be achieved?
By giving flyers, more orientation, just to give information to make people aware.

Should relatives be able to decide whether the organs should be donated if the person who has died has left no record of what he/she wanted to happen?
If the person has no record i think the family should give a say. If they knew the person wanted to donate, even if he/she didn't have record, they should say yes. Sometimes when a person die, close relatives are very heartbroken and they don't want people to even touch their relatives, but since it's such a personal matter they should decide.

[mrsmichael6300]

Are you an organ donor?
Yes!

Do you agree or disagree with donating organs/transplantations? Why?

I wholeheartendly agree with orgain donation! There are thousands of people, some children, waiting for an organ, waiting for a miracle. It is comforting to know that if I were to die, my death could help someone else live a life. That's powerful for me. It's especially important now that I haave children and have contemplated what would happen if one of them needed an organ. I couldn't imagine watching my child slip away all for the want of an organ -- an organ available every day if people would just choose to be organ donors!

Should people be encouraged to become donors, seeing as there are not enough organs around to meet the needs of everyone? If yes, how might this be achieved?

Of course people should be encouraged! I believe that ad campaigns, education about the need for organ donation adn the process, and dispelling of organ donation myths is necessary. I have had several people tell me that they were told that if a person has said "yes" to organ donation on his/her driver's license than the EMT's will be less likely to try to save his/her life in an emergency! Others say that if their bodies are not "whole" they may not be received in Heaven (I come from a Catholic familiy). It saddens me that people are so frightened by something so pure and wonderful.

Should relatives be able to decide whether the organs should be donated if the person who has died has left no record of what he/she wanted to happen?

I say yes. My husband has left no instructions and I've made it clear to him that if he were to die, I would donate his organs. Until he makes a definite "no" decision, that's where I stand. I don't think I would give a second thought to donating the organs of one of my children, or a deceased relative for that matter. I believe so strongly in organ harvesting that I would most likely ask about it as soon as the doctor or nurse gives me the news of hte person's death. I truly believe in the idea that you can't take the organs with you...

[ornjbreezy]

Are you an organ donor?
Yes, at least I think I am... I put the little sticker on my permit but I don't think you can be one until you're 18, so...

Do you agree or disagree with donating organs/transplantations? Why?
I agree. It helps people, doesn't it? If you've ever seen John Q. (a movie), you'll know exactly what I mean.

Should people be encouraged to become donors, seeing as there are not enough organs around to meet the needs of everyone? If yes, how might this be achieved?
I think people should be encouraged, but not forced. There's this really persuasive commercial for organ donation directed by this amazing 16-year-old who passed away, and I think it's very convincing. (It was on the LotR: RotK extended dvd.) Stuff like that really works.

Should relatives be able to decide whether the organs should be donated if the person who has died has left no record of what he/she wanted to happen?
Yeah. If there's no record....what else would they do? If the person was known to be against it, then don't donate their organs. It just works.

[KatieJoy]

Are you an organ donor?
I have the thing signed on my driver's license and my family knows that if I were to die and they wanted my organs they could take them... what am I going to do with them if my body is dead?! I've donated blood before as well... I saw people put that above, but I don't think blood donation is quite the same as organ donation.

Do you agree or disagree with donating organs/transplantations? Why?
Yes. It save so many lives.

Should people be encouraged to become donors, seeing as there are not enough organs around to meet the needs of everyone? If yes, how might this be achieved?
People should definately be encouraged to become donors. I have no idea how to achieve this, but I think the whole tv commercial thing would work.

Should relatives be able to decide wheter the organs should be donated if the person has left no record of what he/she wanted to happen?
Yes. Relatives should be able to decide.

[tonks442]

Are you an organ donor?
Nope

Do you agree or disagree with donating organs/transplantations? Why?
I guess I haven't developed much of an opinion on this one, but I pretty much agree with organ donations.

Should people be encouraged to become donors, seeing as there are not enough organs around to meet the needs of everyone? If yes, how might this be achieved?

Of course. I think by simply letting your children know what the good of organ donating does, it will spread faster. Teaching your children to do the right thing is always the first step

Should relatives be able to decide whether the organs should be donated if the person who has died has left no record of what he/she wanted to happen?

I think relatives should be able to decide.


One thing I want to mention: I heard that if you are dying, and you are an organ donor, that they try less to save you. What do you think?

[ailehtac]

Are you an organ donor? Not at the present time. I may look into it, but I justdon't know if most of my organs can even help anyone ... It's a long story.

Do you agree or disagree with donating organs/transplantations? Why? Agree. What's wrong with saving a person's life? ^.^

Should people be encouraged to become donors, seeing as there are not enough organs around to meet the needs of everyone? If yes, how might this be achieved?{/b] It should be encoraged, but not mandatory. I think it should be incorporated into the media, like so many other positive messages (ie anti-drug, friends don't let friends drive drunk, etc.).

[b]Should relatives be able to decide whether the organs should be donated if the person who has died has left no record of what he/she wanted to happen? In most cases, no. If the person was very young or otherwise incapable of communicating what s/he wanted, by all means, go for it.

[Dedalus Diggle]

One thing I want to mention: I heard that if you are dying, and you are an organ donor, that they try less to save you. What do you think?
I am completely certain that this is untrue. If a team were to do this it would be literally criminal conduct, and it is very hard to maintain a conspiracy like that, particularly if it is a regular practice. The accusation has been made oftentimes due to a misunderstanding. After death has occurred but the organs are still useable and need to be removed for transplant, a body will be kept on a respirator. This keeps the heart and lungs going, but the person is not really alive. People have misunderstood placing the body on a respirator while no efforts are made to 'revive' the person as failing to try to save that person, when in fact the efforts have already been made, and all the doctors can do is keep the organs alive so that other people's lives can be saved.

[Chiasma]

Are you an organ donor?
Yes

Do you agree or disagree with donating organs/transplantations? Why?
Obviously I agree with organ donation, once your dead you have no need for your organs and tissues and theres no reason why someone else who needs a new organ them shouldn't have it.

Should people be encouraged to become donors, seeing as there are not enough organs around to meet the needs of everyone? If yes, how might this be achieved?
Yes organ donation should be encouraged. I think there should be an opt out scheme rather than an opt in scheme. that way everyone would be an organ donator automatically, so there wouldn't be the problem of people who do mind donating but haven't got around to signing up yet, but people who really object can still fill in a form or something to prevent their organs being donated.

Should relatives be able to decide whether the organs should be donated if the person who has died has left no record of what he/she wanted to happen?
Well its the only viable option at the moment i suppose.

If you live in the UK you can sign up to the NHS organ donation register online here:http://www.uktransplant.org.uk/ukt/how_to_become_a_donor/how_to_become_a_donor.jsp
All you have to do is fill in a short form and if your reading a Harry Potter forum you've obviously got a few minutes spare to do it now.
That website also has a lot of usefull info (www.uktransplant.org.uk/ukt/how_to_become_a_donor/questions/questions.jsp) about organ donation as well.

[Spirit]

Are you an organ donor?
I would be, if I could be. My mom is.

Do you agree or disagree with donating organs/transplantations? Why?
I agree with it. If I'm dead, why would I need my heart, my liver, or something? It would save a person's life. If there are organs out there that work, why should they just be thrown away when someone needs them?

Should people be encouraged to become donors, seeing as there are not enough organs around to meet the needs of everyone? If yes, how might this be achieved?
Yes, I do think that people should be encouraged to become doners. How? I'm really not sure about that. Maybe commercials. I see commercials all the time about drugs, and drinking, and asking your kids Who What Where When questions. About making sure your kid doesn't drown in a bathtub or the pool. Warnings about not wasting water. Since so many people are putting these kind of messages on the air, it must be getting through.

Should relatives be able to decide whether the organs should be donated if the person who has died has left no record of what he/she wanted to happen?
Sure. Really, who needs your organs when you dead? Unless that person had some kind of religion that said that they weren't allowed to have their organs taken or something.

[house elf 13]

Are you an organ donor?

Yes. I have been since I got my first driver's license at 16.

Do you agree or disagree with donating organs/transplantations? Why?

Yes. It saves people's lives, and it allows the family of a person who died (typically suddenly and unexpectedly) to associate their loved one's death with a positive and altruistic act.


Should people be encouraged to become donors, seeing as there are not enough organs around to meet the needs of everyone? If yes, how might this be achieved?

My father was an organ recipient. I find that talking to people about what it meant to us to have him live longer, and how grateful we are to the donor and the donor's family, helps make it personal.

Should relatives be able to decide whether the organs should be donated if the person who has died has left no record of what he/she wanted to happen?

My opinion is yes, in the absence of a directive from the person and no idea what s/he would want.

One thing I want to mention: I heard that if you are dying, and you are an organ donor, that they try less to save you. What do you think?In my father's case, we had the opposite experience. We had to argue and wave paperwork around to assert that we wanted the team to stop using heroic measures. As it turned out, they were not able to accept his organs for donation for medical reasons, but at the time the resucitation was going on, no one knew this yet.

[morgiana]

Are you an organ donor?
No I've had hepatitis and no one wants them.

Do you agree or disagree with donating organs/transplantations? Why?
I agree I'd donate mine is possible.

Should people be encouraged to become donors, seeing as there are not enough organs around to meet the needs of everyone? If yes, how might this be achieved?
Yes! there could be early education. Maybe your drivers license could be $5 cheaper if you volunteer to donate. Don't leave the decision up to emotional relatives.

Should relatives be able to decide whether the organs should be donated if the person who has died has left no record of what he/she wanted to happen?
Who else would do it?

I really believe in organ donation. I'd give mine up in a minute. I'll be dead what do I need them for. I however don't want anyone else's old used organs.

[KatieJoy]

One thing I want to mention: I heard that if you are dying, and you are an organ donor, that they try less to save you. What do you think?

To put it frankly, no, that's not true. It's a common misconception though. I was involved in a program last year though school for high school seniors... I had rotations to all areas of the hospital each week, I got to spend 3 hours each morning observing/helping where I could. I know doctors and nurses work on patients as hard as they can to save their lives, regardless if they are an organ donor. It would be unethical for doctors to not do all they could do if it was the patient's/family's wishes for the patient.

[busy91]

Are you an organ donor?
Yes, at least I think I am... I put the little sticker on my permit but I don't think you can be one until you're 18, so...



You can't make the decision for yourself until you're 18, however if your parents know that this is something you wish to do (in the event...) then they can OK the donation. Anyone at any age can be an organ donor.

[DocHollidaywe]

Are you an organ donor?
Do you agree or disagree with donating organs/transplantations? Why?
Should people be encouraged to become donors, seeing as there are not enough organs around to meet the needs of everyone? If yes, how might this be achieved?
Should relatives be able to decide whether the organs should be donated if the person who has died has left no record of what he/she wanted to happen?


1. Yes I am

2. I agree with it. It saves peoples lives, who otherwise would have died.

3. Yes it should be encouraged. During school classes the benefits people have due to transplants. Perhaps something in a drivers ed course (I only say this, because when you receive your license you check the organ donor box)

4. Yes if the person did not specify one way or another. If they did specify then of course their wish should be followed.

[ArtemisiaDax]

Are you an organ donor?
Yes.

Do you agree or disagree with donating organs/transplantations? Why?
I agree with organ donations wholeheartedly. I really can't see how you could disagree with them; after all, it's not as if you need the parts when you're dead, and they're saving lives.
For people worried about how they're going to look when they're dead: You can't tell the difference. Even if they take your corneas, funeral homes can arrange it so that you look just as you would even if the organs are missing.
(Besides, if you're really thinking about what happens to your body once you're dead, go find a site that explains exactly what funeral homes do to your body after you've died. Between getting pumped full of formaldehyde and treated with chemicals, your body is going to go through a lot anyway. And you'll be worm food in a month, so...who really cares what they do with anything that you're not going to need any more? But, to get back to the original point, funeral home people are amazing. If you donate, your relatives won't notice anything. It's not like your torso is going to collapse because your stomach suddenly isn't there.)
Also, doctors still work just as hard to save you whether or not you've signed the card. They won't check it until after you're dead.

Should people be encouraged to become donors, seeing as there are not enough organs around to meet the needs of everyone? If yes, how might this be achieved?
I agree with the opt-out scheme; that is, making everyone an automatic donor unless they specify otherwise. It's the easiest way, since people are lazy and many can't be bothered to sign up.

Should relatives be able to decide whether the organs should be donated if the person who has died has left no record of what he/she wanted to happen?
Yes. Although I still feel that the automatic opt-out scheme would be the best way.

As for blood donations: I would, but
I'm on multiple prescription medications that circulate in my bloodstream, banning me from donating, low blood pressure, and may have spent too much time in Britain. So that's three strikes against me :-(

[jenggakun]

I just want to share something that perhaps some of you haven't heard before.

A news magazine featured a community in my country where almost more than 3/4 of the adult population donated their kidneys in exchange of money. Many scout for poor people who are willing to "donate" one kidney, telling them they're going to be ok even with just one kidney and that the situation will be helpful to the donor and to the patient. Unfortunately, many are tricked into donating their healthy organs in exchange of a little sum of money due to poverty. After their operations the donors became sickly and weren't in the right condition to work and provide for their own families. The money they received weren't enough even to feed them for a few months.

It just saddens me that many exploit those people who'll do anything to give their families a better life. No doubt those people who scout for the said organs sell the kidneys to rich locals as well as foreigners. It's horrible that many make organ donations a business, tricking other people and not clearly making them understand the consequences.

[house elf 13]

I just want to share something that perhaps some of you haven't heard before.

A news magazine featured a community in my country where almost more than 3/4 of the adult population donated their kidneys in exchange of money. Many scout for poor people who are willing to "donate" one kidney, telling them they're going to be ok even with just one kidney and that the situation will be helpful to the donor and to the patient. Unfortunately, many are tricked into donating their healthy organs in exchange of a little sum of money due to poverty. After their operations the donors became sickly and weren't in the right condition to work and provide for their own families. The money they received weren't enough even to feed them for a few months.

It just saddens me that many exploit those people who'll do anything to give their families a better life. No doubt those people who scout for the said organs sell the kidneys to rich locals as well as foreigners. It's horrible that many make organ donations a business, tricking other people and not clearly making them understand the consequences.

In the US, it's illegal to buy or sell organs. This policy might help in your country. I'm sad to read your post.

[_SiRiUs_BlAcK_]

Are you an organ donor?

Not at the present. I most likely will. I definately want to give blood too.

Do you agree or disagree with donating organs/transplantations? Why?

I totally agree with it. I think it's a wonderful thing to do. I am probably going to do it because I don't think I'd really need my organs once Im dead so I think it would be great to use them to save lives.

Should people be encouraged to become donors, seeing as there are not enough organs around to meet the needs of everyone? If yes, how might this be achieved?

Yes, I think people should be encouraged. Not forced, just told how cool it is to to that.

Should relatives be able to decide whether the organs should be donated if the person who has died has left no record of what he/she wanted to happen?

Yeah, of course.