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Organ Donations

If you would like to donate any of your organs, you should leave your family instructions regarding your intentions. There is a uniform donor card you can complete at www.organdonor.gov/donor/index.htm. There is also general information about organ donation and issues to consider, including notifying your family about your wishes to donate your organs. Of course, you don't have to use forms to let your family know your wishes.

Many states include your intentions about organ donations on your driver's license. It is very likely that you would have your driver's license with you if it were necessary to make a decision about an organ transplant. Some medical directives may include this optional information. See the sample health care directive in Appendix E.

You can also prepare a paper that states your name and lists the organs you would like donated, and sign the paper in the presence of two witnesses. Although many states do not require a notary, it's a good idea to sign in the presence of two witnesses and a notary. Then, make sure you have informed your family about what you want done. Many times, if the desired organ is not preserved shortly after your death, your intentions will not be met because it will not be medically possible to preserve the organ while your family looks for your organ transplant instructions.

  1. Home
  2. Wills and Estate Planning
  3. Guidance for Your Family
  4. Organ Donations
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