For many people, organ donation is an opportunity to turn tragedy into life. Choosing organ donation can bring a sense of peace to the loved ones of someone who dies suddenly.
This was the case for the Warder family when 17-year old Tristen passed away at Flagstaff Medical Center surrounded by his parents, family and friends. Several hours before, the family had decided to donate his organs, knowing they could save lives.
Tristen’s heart saved the life of a Phoenix man, his liver and one kidney saved the life of a Tucson man, and his eyes allowed an 11-year-old girl who had been born blind to see.
It’s important for a person to leave this life with dignity, and for his or her loved ones to be able to grieve and make the end-of-life decisions that are best. Some choose organ donation; some do not. There’s no right or wrong – either way, we’re here to support family decisions.
Giving the gift of life as an organ donor
Today, thousands of people in the U.S. are waiting for a lifesaving organ transplant. More than 2,300 people are on the organ donation waiting list in Arizona alone.
Every 10 minutes, another name is added to the national organ transplant waiting list.
Donate Life Arizona offers special events, support and donation services. Arizonans can sign up as registered organ and tissue donors when they apply or renew their driver’s licenses or IDs at the Motor Vehicle Division, online or by calling 1-800-94-DONOR.
If you have questions about Donor Network Arizona, organ donation, resources or reporting requirements, contact them at [email protected].