One tissue donation can enhance the lives of as many as 50 patients. In the United States today, very little of the need for certain human tissues for transplantation is met.
Donation occurs after a loved one dies.
The family must consent. During the consent process, a trained donor coordinator asks permission for each tissue to be procured, so the family knows exactly what they are giving of the donor. Highly skilled and trained Red Cross professionals work with donor families to educate them about the donation process, offer counseling services and secure donor consent. Once tissue is secured, the Red Cross ensures that various safety measures occur so patients receive the safest tissue available. The American National Red Cross.