Organ and tissue transplants restore thousands of individuals with the ability to resume healthy, productive lives within their families and their communities. Transplantation is perhaps the most remarkable success in the history of medicine. Often, it is the only hope for people who are suffering. Sixty years ago, scientists were on the brink of a scientific breakthrough. Studies showed that human organ transplantation was feasible, and that it would be beneficial to thousands of patients, but nobody was able to make it work.

In the 1950s success finally came. Several kidney transplants gave new life to ill patients. In the decades that followed, doctors learned how to transplant livers, pancreas, corneas, hearts, bone marrow and tissue. Today transplantation is considered the best option for thousands every year. Unfortunately, both physicians and their patients face a great challenge: The demand for organ transplants has surpassed the supply of available donated organs. Simply put, there aren't enough organ donations. Patients must wait months, and years for a chance to regain their health. Sadly, for some, the opportunity never arises. 5,000 potential transplant recipients die in the United States every year waiting for an organ donation.

In the United States, the majority of the population is in favor of organ donation. However, only a fraction of people actually donate their viable organs when they die. The final decision to donate a deceased individual's organs is left to person's family. Organ donor cards or organ donor indications on a driver's license are important, but the consent of family members takes precedence.

Most people do not want to contemplate their own death. Rarely does one take the time to discuss their desire to be an organ donor with their families. When presented with the decision, family members aren't sure what to do. If you wish to be an organ donor please discuss it with your family members. Alternatively create a living will and let your desires be legally known.

For more information on Organ donation please visit Yes Utah!