BUSTING ORGAN DONATION MYTHS

Myth: If I’m a registered donor, doctors won’t try as hard to save my life.

Fact: The doctor’s first priority is always to save your life. Organ and tissue donation will only be considered if you have died, or when death is expected.

Myth: It’s better to let my family decide at the time. Fact: If you want to become a donor, you need to tell your family. Nine out of 10 families say yes to donation if their loved one is registered. But when the family is unaware of their loved one’s wish, that drops to four out of 10 families.

Myth: I’m too old or unhealthy to be an organ and tissue donor.

Fact: Anyone over the age of 16 can register to be a donor, even if they smoke, drink or have an unhealthy diet. You don’t have to be young, or in perfect health.

Myth: I’m already registered to be a donor on my driver’s licence.

Fact: You can only register when applying for a driver’s licence in South Australia. In the other states, you now need to join the Australian Organ Donor Register. If you think you signed up on your driver’s licence, it takes less than a minute to check at donatelife.gov.au

Myth: Organ and tissue donation is against my religion.

Fact: All major religions – including Christianity, Islam, Buddhism, Hinduism and Judaism – support donation as an act of compassion and generosity. Donation specialists can help your family make arrangements to support your religious and cultural requirements.

Myth: Organ and tissue donation will disfigure my body.

Fact: Your body will be treated with dignity and respect and your family can still have an open casket viewing if desired.