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Sarah scrolled through her phone, a heartwarming post about a young boy receiving a life-saving kidney transplant caught her eye. A wave of warmth washed over her, followed by a pang of anxiety. She'd always meant to register as an organ donor but always hesitated because of unanswered questions. 

Sound familiar? Many of us feel the same way. The truth is that organ donation is a powerful act of generosity shrouded in misconceptions. Let's debunk some common myths and uncover the facts:

Myth 1: Doctors won't try as hard to save me if I'm an organ donor.

This is absolutely false. A medical team's first priority is always to save your life. Organ donation is only considered after all life-saving efforts have been exhausted and death has been declared. Two separate teams of medical professionals are involved – one focused on your care, the other on potential organ recovery.

Myth 2: My religion doesn't support organ donation.

Most major religions view organ donation as a charitable act of compassion. If you have concerns, speak with your religious leader for clarification. They can offer guidance based on your specific faith's teachings.

Myth 3: I'm too old/unhealthy to be a donor.

Age isn't a barrier. Medical professionals determine eligibility at the time of death based on individual circumstances. People of all ages and various medical histories have successfully donated organs and tissues. Even if some organs aren't suitable, others might be. Don't rule yourself out!

Myth 4: Organ donation disfigures the body, preventing an open-casket funeral.

Organ recovery is performed with the utmost respect and surgical precision. The body is treated with dignity, and incisions are closed carefully. Open-casket funerals are still possible.

Myth 5: My family will have to pay for the donation process.

The donor's family incurs no costs related to organ donation. The recipient's insurance typically covers the expenses associated with transplantation.

The Reality:

“Organ donation is a gift that can transform lives," says Ciaran Geraghty, Administrative Director of Nursing at Hackensack University Medical Center, who sits on the hospital’s Organ Donor Counsel. “One donor can save up to eight lives and enhance the lives of more than 75 others through tissue donation. By registering as an organ donor, you're offering hope to those waiting for a second chance.”

Sarah, armed with the facts, finally registered online. A sense of peace settled over her. She knew she had the potential to make a profound difference, even after she was gone.

Ready to learn more or register as a donor? Click and remember to talk to your family about your decision – it's a conversation that can save lives. Let's replace the myths with knowledge and embrace the power of giving the gift of life.

According to the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS), over 100,000 Americans are waiting for a lifesaving organ transplant, with nearly 4,000 of them in New Jersey. One organ and tissue donor can save eight lives and enhance the lives of over 75 others. While the opportunity to give the gift of life is rare, it’s a truly precious one. Less than 1% of all deaths meet the specific medical criteria to become an organ donor, which highlights the importance of encouraging more people to register as donors. Every new donor registration brings hope, helping to save and enhance lives.

ABOUT HACKENSACK MERIDIAN HEALTH

Hackensack Meridian Health is a leading not-for-profit health care organization that is the largest, most comprehensive and truly integrated health care network in New Jersey, offering a complete range of medical services, innovative research and life-enhancing care. The network has 18 hospitals and more than 500 patient care locations, which include ambulatory care centers, surgery centers, home health services, ambulance services, lifesaving air medical transportation, rehabilitation centers, urgent care centers, physician practice locations, and a fitness and wellness center. With more than 35,000 team members and 7,000 physicians, Hackensack Meridian Health is a distinguished leader in health care philanthropy and committed to the health and well-being of communities throughout New Jersey. 

The network’s notable distinctions include having the only #1 ranked adult and children's hospitals in New Jersey, as ranked by U.S. 麻豆传媒 & World Report, 2023-24. Hackensack University Medical Center is nationally-ranked by U.S. 麻豆传媒 & World Report in six specialties. To learn more, visit .  

About NJ Sharing Network (NJSN)

NJ Sharing Network (NJSN) is a federally designated nonprofit organization dedicated to saving and enhancing lives through the recovery of donated organs and tissue. Headquartered in New Providence, NJ, NJ Sharing Network partners with 54 local hospitals to bring hope to nearly 4,000 New Jersey residents awaiting a lifesaving organ transplant, while also contributing to the national effort to support over 100,000 individuals on the U.S. transplant waiting list. With over three million New Jerseyans registered as organ and tissue donors, the organization has reported organ donation records for six consecutive years. NJ Sharing Network is consistently ranked among the top-performing organ procurement organizations (OPOs) in the nation and was honored as NJBIZ’s 2024 Nonprofit Business of the Year. It has also been recognized as one of New Jersey’s ‘Best Places to Work’ for seven consecutive years, reflecting its commitment to fostering an innovative and mission-driven workplace. To learn more, get involved, or join the National Donate Life Registry as an organ and tissue donor, visit .