Frequently Asked Questions
Who can be a donor? What organs and tissue can I donate? What does my religion say about donation?
Many people have questions before they decide to register as an organ, tissue and eye donor. We’re here to provide the answers.
General Questions
What is organ and tissue donation?
Organ and tissue donation is the process of recovering transplantable organs and tissues to save and heal the lives of others.
Who can register as a donor?
Most people can register as organ and tissue donors regardless of age, background, or medical history. New drivers can register as donors beginning at age 16 when they receive their driver’s license. However, until they turn 18, the final legal decision regarding donation remains with their parent or legal guardian. Medical professionals determine donation eligibility at the time of death.
Is there an age limit to become a donor?
No. People of all ages may register. Suitability is determined at the time of death.
Does a history of medical illness mean I cannot donate?
Not necessarily. Each potential donor is evaluated case by case. Advances in transplantation allow more people than ever to become donors. Do not rule yourself out — let medical professionals determine eligibility.
Can my family override my decision?
In Arkansas, documented donor registration is generally honored. However, it is strongly encouraged that you share your decision with your family.
Is there a cost to the donor’s family?
No. All costs related to donation are covered. Funeral expenses remain the responsibility of the family.
Does donation delay funeral arrangements?
No. Recovery occurs promptly and does not prevent open-casket services.
Does my religion allow donation?
All major organized religions support organ and tissue donation as an act of charity and compassion.
Organ Donation
What organs can be donated?
Organs that can be transplanted include:
- Heart
- Lungs
- Liver
- Kidneys
- Pancreas
- Intestines
One donor can save up to eight lives.
How does organ matching work?
Recipients are selected based on:
- Severity of illness
- Blood and tissue compatibility
- Organ size
- Time on the waiting list
- Geographic location
- National Transplant Policies
This ensures fairness and medical accuracy.
If emergency room doctors know I’m a donor,
will they still try to save me?
Yes. The number one priority of medical professionals is to save your life. Donation is only considered after all lifesaving efforts have failed, and brain death has been legally declared. Brain death is irreversible and is considered legal death. The doctor who treats you when you first come in is not the same as the doctor or team who recovers organs.
Do “rich and famous” people get priority?
No. Allocation is based strictly on medical criteria and national transplant policies — not income or status.
Tissue & Eye Donation
What tissues can be donated?
Tissues that can be donated include:
- Eyes (corneas)
- Skin
- Bone
- Heart valves
- Blood vessels
- Tendons
- Nerves
How does eye donation help?
The cornea restores sight to individuals with corneal disease, injury, or birth defects.
How does skin donation help?
Skin is used for burn grafts, breast reconstruction, abdominal wall repair, and other procedures. It promotes healing and reduces scarring.
How does bone donation help?
Bone grafts are used for spinal fusions, trauma reconstruction, tumor repair, fractures, and to prevent amputation or bone collapse.
Can tissue donation really help multiple people?
Yes. One tissue donor can heal more than 75 people.
Birth Tissue Donation
What is birth tissue donation?
Birth tissue donation allows mothers delivering by planned C-section to donate the placenta, umbilical cord, and amniotic membrane for healing therapies.
Will birth tissue donation affect my baby?
No. Birth tissue is recovered only after your baby is safely delivered.
Does birth tissue donation change my delivery plan?
No. Your delivery proceeds exactly as your provider recommends.
Will donation delay my time with my baby?
No. You can begin bonding immediately.
Is there a cost for birth tissue donation?
No. There is no cost to you.
Donation Process
How does the donation process begin?
When a patient meets clinical criteria, the hospital notifies Southern Legacy of Life. A clinical evaluation determines if donation is possible.
Who talks to families about donation?
Trained SLL specialists speak with families compassionately and provide information without pressure.
What is brain death?
Brain death is the irreversible cessation of all brain activity and is legally recognized as death. Testing is performed according to strict medical standards.
What is Donation After Circulatory Death (DCD)?
DCD occurs after the heart stops beating following the withdrawal of life-sustaining treatment, under carefully controlled medical protocols.
Donor Family & Aftercare
Can I write to my loved one’s recipient?
Yes, if your loved one was an organ or cornea donor. Letters are reviewed to protect privacy before being forwarded.
Will the recipient know who I am?
No. All correspondence is anonymous unless both parties agree to release identifying information.
Will I hear back from the recipient?
Possibly. Some recipients respond quickly, others may need time, and some may never respond. Lack of response does not reflect lack of gratitude.
Your decision
can save lives
Register today to become an organ donor in Arkansas.