Organ and tissue transplants are one of the greatest achievements of modern medicine. A single donor can save the life of several people, restore the sight of two others and improve the quality of life of many more.
Transplants depend entirely on the generosity of donors and their families. Deciding whether or not you would like to become an organ or tissue donor after you die is something very personal. It is important that everyone makes their own decision.
At Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust we would strongly encourage you to make sure you discuss organ and tissue donation with your next of kin so you understand their wishes. They may also want to consider carrying an organ donor card or recording their wishes on the NHS Organ Donor Register.
We have a team of specialist nurses at our trust who handle all aspects of organ and tissue donation with sensitivity and respect. They will help if you have to make a decision about whether your loved one would have wanted to be a donor following their death. This includes checking whether your loved one had ever expressed a wish to donate in their lifetime. They will also help guide you through the decisions you will need to make.