It is increasingly common for people to include a wish to be an organ donor in their will. Did you know that the lack of organ donors results in the deaths of three people every day on average? Joining the organ donor registry could have a positive impact on several families, and organ donation saves lives. So, how can you make sure your desire to donate your organs is carried out after you pass away? Continue reading to learn more.
Are You Automatically On The Organ Donor Register?
Everyone in England, Scotland, and Wales is automatically regarded as an organ donor as of May 2020, unless they choose not to donate or belong to an excluded group. While it is an opt-out system, it is officially called Deemed Consent. Among the excluded groups are:
- People under the age of 18
- Those who are mentally incapable of comprehending the new organ donor agreements
- Anybody who passed away after less than a year of residence in England.
- Those on vacation in England at the time of death
Writing a Will
Wills are often not read until days or weeks after a person has passed away. Because organ donation must happen within hours of death, a wish found only in a Will is almost always discovered too late. You should use the NHS Organ Donor Register to ensure your wishes are expressed correctly. It is still important to document your broader wishes clearly when writing a will, even though organ donation decisions are handled separately.
Family Wishes
Medical personnel will continue to honour the deceased’s culture and religion, and the family will always be consulted before an organ donation decision is made. Regardless of whether the deceased registered on the NHS organ donor website, a nurse makes sure their wishes are carried out by checking with their relatives. This is why it’s crucial to talk to your loved ones about your desires for organ donation. Some people choose to give their organs, but they have certain sections they would prefer not to donate. Speaking with loved ones about your desires helps them understand them and, when the time comes, express them.
Donating Organs
Donating organs is a wonderful way to help people survive. Numerous body parts can be given; however, the most commonly transplanted are:
- The heart
- The liver
- Kidneys
- The lungs
- The pancreas
- The intestines
After your death, other body parts and organ tissues may also be helpful. These consist of:
- The skin
- Heart valves
- Veins
- Bones from the arms and upper body
- Connective tissues and bone
- Corneas
Many people take solace in the idea that a part of them endures, allowing others, sometimes even children, to live lives they might not otherwise be able to. Donating an organ is a personal decision, and it is recommended that you do your homework to make an informed choice. Anyone willing to donate will make an impact, as there will always be people waiting for organs. You should use the official NHS Organ Donor Register to ensure your organ donation wishes are recorded and accessible immediately
For guidance after a loved one passes away, our probate services can support families through the legal process.
For professional probate advice, contact Probate a Will on 0203 9859554.
