How to Start the Conversation about Donation
If you're a transplant recipient or family member, a great way to express gratitude for the gift you have received is to help raise awareness of organ, eye and tissue donation, and to discuss the topic with your loved ones. We encourage you to start the conversation about donation with those closest to you.
Starting the Conversation
Remember that it's important to discuss your decision with your family, as that will take priority over your family’s preferences and help them feel confident and prepared when they are approached about donation. Making the decision for yourself in advance makes it easier for your family during a very difficult time.
How to Start the Conversation
Have you talked with your family about your decision to be an organ, eye and tissue donor? It can be difficult to start the conversation. Here are a few tips to help you start the conversation:
Use your license or ID
Your driver license or ID is a great conversation starter! Check if the designating symbol, (a red heart with the word "DONOR" in Florida), is on your license or ID. Discuss what the symbol means, remind your family that they need to say "Yes" each time they renew and share with them what your decision is and why.
Share a story about donation
Are you a recipient or a donor family member? Do you know someone who is? Organ, eye and tissue donation touches thousands in our region each year. Share a story about someone who made the heroic decision to be a donor and how, as a result, that decision saved another life.
Know the facts and share
Just one donor can save up to eight lives through organ donation and save and heal up to 75 lives through tissue donation. There are nearly 2,000 awaiting a lifesaving organ transplant in our local region. Learn the myths and facts of donation and share with your loved ones.
We encourage you to start the conversation. Below are annual events that offer a special opportunity to discuss donation with your family and friends.
National Donor Day - February 14, 2024
National Donate Life Month - April, 2024
National Donate Life Blue and Green Day - April 12, 2024
National Pediatric Transplant Week - April 21-27, 2024
National Minority Donor Awareness Month - August, 2024
National Donor Sabbath - November 15-17, 2024
Even with special events, each day can be an opportunity to share the love by signing up as an organ, eye, and tissue donor and then sharing your decision with your family. Share your decision on social media with #StartTheConversation to encourage others to do the same.
