Click here for help with PDF files. There is a severe shortage of organs and tissues for transplantation. In addition to those New Yorkers awaiting organ transplants, more than 20,000 others await tissue donations for lifesaving transplants, as in the case of burn and cancer patients. Without these surgeries, they will die or remain disabled.
Transplants give people a chance to resume full, productive lives.
Family consent is required for organ and tissue donation. Many families do not consent to donation because they are unaware of their loved ones' wishes. The New York State Organ and Tissue Donor Registry will ensure that an individual's wishes to become a donor upon his or her death will be honored by family members and health care providers. A person's medical history or age does not automatically exclude him or her from becoming a donor. Or, you can complete and mail the attached enrollment card .