HELP MAKE SOUTH AFRICA A DONATION NATION BY BECOMING AN ORGAN DONOR

How do I sign up to become an organ or tissue donor?

You can register online at www.odf.org.za or you can call the Organ Donor Foundation’s toll-free number 0800 22 66 11.

How will people know I am an organ donor?

Once you have registered as an organ donor you will receive a card you must fill in and carry in your wallet, a sticker to place on your identity document and/or your driver’s licence. The Organ Donor Foundation also advise that it is important to inform your family of your decision.

Who can be an organ donor?

Anyone who is in good health and does not have certain chronic disease can be considered as a possible donor. The decision about which organs/tissue will be transplanted will be established at your time of death.

Do I need medical tests to register as a donor?

All tests will be done at the time of death. Which organs and tissues can be transplanted?

You can donate your heart, liver, pancreas, kidneys and lungs, as well as corneas, skin, bone, tendons and heart valves. You are allowed to exclude some organs or tissues from being transplanted.

Can I donate corneas if my eyesight is bad?

You do not need good eyesight to donate your corneas. The only exclusion is if the donor tests positive for HIV/Aids, hepatitis B or C, or septicaemia.

How are corneas donated?

Corneas are removed within six to 12 hours after death by trained technicians. This can be done at the mortuary, the funeral undertaker or even at home. The funeral won’t be delayed.

Source: Organ Donor Foundation