The Advantages of Organ Donations

Not everyone is born with organs that will take them through a lifetime. Tens of thousands of people with health problems are placed on waiting lists each year for organs that could save their lives. For these individuals, finding an organ donor match is a matter of life and death. Many of them do not make it because the demand far outweighs the supply. Becoming an organ donor has advantages for both the recipient and the donor.

Save Lives

• Organ donation saves the lives of thousands of people each year. Those who participate in organ donation upon their deaths by registering with their local Department of Motor Vehicles and those who choose to be living donors directly affect the lives of the people who receive their organs or tissues.

  According to the United Network for Organ Sharing website, there were more than 108,000 people waiting for organs at the end of September 2010. Approximately 13 people die each day waiting for an organ donation. Some of these lives will be saved if more people are willing to take part in an organ donation program.

Lessen Family Grief

• According to the Health First website, families tend to endure the grieving process more easily when a loved one is an organ donor. The idea that their family member's death will result in something positive for another person provides comfort during a difficult time. If you are an organ donor and know that your family will receive this comfort thanks to your generosity, then it can be comforting to you in life as well.

  The organ recipients have a second chance at life that might enable the recipient's family to enjoy many more years together and return them to a more normal or higher quality of life, according to the Health First website.

Feel Good About Yourself

• Although there are plenty of reasons to donate organs for the benefit of others, don't forget about what it can do for you. It's OK to give yourself a pat on the back. The act of giving life to those who might not have otherwise lived without you is something that will make you feel good about yourself. Knowing you have done something good for your fellow man can enrich your life even if your good deed won't come to fruition for many years to come. Simply signing up for the program means you have done your part.

  For those who become living donors, such as giving up one kidney to another who needs it, it allows the donor to see the good they have done. A living donor also shortens waiting lists, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.