When a person’s organs have been damaged or destroyed by disease, accident or a pre-existing condition, a transplant is often their only option for survival. And while scientific advances have made it possible for those afflicted with life-threatening conditions to live longer through transplantation, it means these lifesaving organs are in high demand. Unfortunately, the discrepancies in supply and demand result in long wait times and tragic consequences.
Every day, approximately 20 people die waiting for a lifesaving organ transplant.
The national waiting list is more than 100,000 people and continues to grow by six every hour.
Approximately 2,400 of patients in need of these organs are Virginians.
But there’s hope.
The more organ donors who are registered, the more lives can be impacted.
One organ donor can save the lives of up to eight people.
One tissue donor can enhance the lives of more than 75 people.
The organ, eye and tissue donation process can save or greatly enhance lives. Recipients go on to live normal, healthy, and productive lives.
Transplant survival rates keep increasing as medical therapies get better.
Donor families who are grieving find comfort in helping others.