A better tissue match can be made between a living donor and recipient so transplants from living donors with a known health history are often more successful. Although this procedure will not benefit the donor in any medical sense, the generosity of this gift can bring great personal rewards. This is one of the few chances in life to become a real hero through this expression of care and love. This donation must be an individual choice, a decision the donor makes without the pressure of family members or other outside influences. Once the decision is made with comfort and confidence, the donor gives with the knowledge that the recipient has a renewed hope for a healthy life.
Many donors say it is one of the most fulfilling and meaningful events in their life.
No matter what the circumstances, no one can be coerced to donate a portion of his or her liver. It is their right not to feel comfortable with this important decision. The transplant team can make it easier for possible donors to say no, because they can protect the privacy of each possible donor. The reasons why a potential donor is not a good candidate can be kept a private matter between this possible donor and the transplant team. After determining that the donor and recipient's blood types are compatible, the donor will undergo a medical history and complete physical examination.