Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions About Organ and Tissue Donation

1. How does a person become an organ donor?

In Nebraska you can become an organ, eye and tissue donor in any one of three ways:
1) by signing up on the Nebraska Donor Registry at www.nedonation.org
2) by consenting to become a donor at the Department of Motor Vehicles when applying for or renewing your driver’s license or state identification card, or
3) by signing an organ donor registration card.

People who have already indicated their wish to be an organ donor on their driver’s license are automatically entered into the state donor registry.

2. Does my family have to give consent for me to be a donor?

No. First Person Legislation, passed in September 2003 in Nebraska, allows a person to make the decision regarding organ donation for himself/herself and does not require additional consent, except for minors. Minors can register as donors, but their parents or guardians will be asked to give consent for donation. The First Person Consent law ensures that your wish to donate organs will be honored and that your donation cannot be revoked by anyone else. Even though consent from family members is no longer required, it is important to let your family members know your wishes regarding donation so they will understand and support your decision.

3. If I have agreed to donate my organs and tissues in the event of my death, will medical professionals still take every step to save my life?

Yes. First and foremost, medical professionals are life-savers. The team of physicians that provides care to irreversibly brain-injured patients is separate and distinct from the teams who remove organs and provide care to the organ transplant recipients. Supporting this concept, the Uniform Anatomical Gift Act states: “the physician who certifies death…shall not participate in the procedures for removing or transplanting…”  This assures that there is no conflict of interest for the physician caring for the patient.

4. Can I sell my organs and/or tissues?

No.  Federal Public Law 98-507 prohibits the buying or selling of organs and tissues.

5. If I am an organ donor, can I still have an open casket funeral?

Organ and tissue donation should not interfere with funeral plans. An open casket service is still possible.

6. What organs and tissues can be donated for transplant?

Heart, lungs, kidneys, liver, pancreas and small bowel. Tissues include eyes (corneas), tendons, veins, heart valves, skin and bone.

7. Are there age limits for organ donation?

There is no age limit to register as a donor. Your medical condition at the time of death will determine which organs and tissues can be transplanted. Each potential donor is evaluated on an individual basis. The oldest cornea donor used for research in Nebraska was 104 years old.

8. I have poor eyesight. Can I still donate my eyes?

Yes. Poor vision is usually a disease of another part of the eye other than the cornea. Your cornea may be suitable for transplantation. If you have diabetes, retinal disease or other eye diseases, your eyes can still be valuable for research.

9. Is there a cost to the donor family?

No. There is no cost to the donor’s family or estate for organ and tissue donation.

10.  Does my church support organ donation?

All major religions in the United States support organ and tissue donation as a final act of compassion and generosity. We encourage you to talk to your religious advisor for specifics of your church beliefs.

For more information call
Nebraska Organ and Tissue Donor Coalition
800-718-LIFE or (402) 559-3788