The Gift of Organ and Tissue Donation Prior to Cremation
According to nonprofit organ and tissue recovery organizations, just one organ donor can save up to eight lives, whereas a tissue donor could save the lives of at least 50 people. However, many Americans do not sign up for organ and tissue donation, and as a result, 18 people die everyday because an organ was not made available in time to save their lives.
When planning for your funeral or cremation, you can volunteer to become an organ and tissue donor, and help save the lives of those who are still living and in need of organs and tissue. Organ and tissue donation is completely free, and your organs and tissue will be gifts that can potentially enhance the lives of those who are living, aged young and old.
Who can become an organ and tissue donor?
Any person can become an organ or tissue donor regardless of age, race, gender, or medical history; however, the manner in which you passed and the state of your health will play a role regarding the final decision of whether your organs and tissue can be used to improve the lives of others.
Which of my organs and tissues will be donated?
Generally, your heart, lungs, kidneys, pancreas, and small intestine will be tested fit for donation, as well as bone, corneas, connective tissue, skin, heart valves, and blood vessels. At the time of your death, the state of your organs and tissue will be evaluated by medical professionals, and donated accordingly.
How will my organs and tissue be used?
Your organ and tissue donations will be used to replace a person’s bone, tendons, and ligaments that may have been lost to trauma, cancer, or other diseases. For example, corneas can be used to restore a person’s sight, whereas heart valves can repair any damages or defects that have impacted another person’s health.
When pre-planning your funeral or cremation, you can sign up for your state’s registry to become an organ and tissue donor, and donate parts of your body to those in need prior to being cremated.
If you reside in the state of Kansas, visit the Kansas Organ and Tissue Donor Registry to sign up to become an organ, tissue, and eye donor. If you reside in the state of Missouri, register to become an organ donor with the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services.
At Heartland Cremation, we assure you that your loved one will be well cared for at all times and that they’ll be treated with the respect and dignity they deserve. Our cremation services currently span the Kansas City, Jefferson, and Columbia, MO, regions. Contact Heartland Cremation today to learn more about our cremation and funeral services.
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