The Gift of Life
(Organ Donation)

The priceless Gift of Life

Death and organ donation are difficult issues to think, let alone talk about. And if it's hard for us now, imagine how it might feel during the death of a loved one. The medical staff who fought to save the patient's life find it just as difficult to accept death and talk about it. Making a decision to donate the organs and tissues of a loved one who has just died may not be easy. It is by pledging our organ and tissues during our lifetime that we make this decision making process easier and less stressful for our relatives.

By signing up with the National Donor Registry you will be allowing your organs and tissues to used for transplantation after death. This will help save lives.

We know that organ & tissue donation is a subject which raises many questions. Here are answers to some questions that are frequently asked.

Who can be a donor?

Anyone, young and old alike can sign up to be a donor. Individuals below 18 years of age will need parental/guardian consent.

What is organ donation?

It is the gift of ones body parts after death for the purpose of transplantation. Transplanation is an operation which involves the replacement of diseased and defective organs and tissues with healthy ones from donors. This treatment helps save lifes of people. Organ and tissue donations is the ultimate humanitarian act of charity.

What are the organs and tissues that can be donated?

The commonly transplanted organs are kidneys, heart, liver, lungs and pancreas while the tranplantable tissues are eyes, bone, skin and heart valves. Thus a single donor can save the lives of a number of people.

When are the organs and tissues removed?

Only when death has been confirmed by two registered doctors. The doctors involved with certification of death are not involved in the transplantation operation at all.

Will my hospital treatment be affected if they know that I am a donor?

Absolutely not. The doctors will undertake every know measure to save your life right till the end. Only when they are satisfied that you are dead will the question of organ and tissue donation be discussed with your relatives.

Are there any religious objections?

No. All the major religions of the world - Islam, Christianity, Buddhism, Hinduism and Sikhism endorse organ and tissue donation as the ultimate act of charity and benevolence.

How are the organs removed?

The process of organ and tissue donation involves a sterile surgical operation undertaken by a skilled team of surgeons. There is no mutilation or disfiguration of the body. The donor is treated with utmost respect and dignity as in any operation. Following removal of the organs and tissues, the surgical wound will be closed just as in any other operation.

What if I change my mind later?

Organ donation is voluntary and if at any point you decide against donating your organs and tissues, all you have to do is to inform your family about it and return your donor card.

Will the process of organ donation delay the funeral arrangements?

Not at all. Arrangements for funeral can be made as in any case of death. Following the removal of the organs and tissues, the body will be cleaned and draped and returned to the family within the shortest possible time. Removal of organs and tissues does not interfere with the customary funeral or burial including open casket arrangements.

How can I become a donor?

Simply complete a donor pledge form and the donor card. Forward to the National Transplant Resource Centre and keep the donor card in your wallet.

Please inform your family of your wish to be an organ and tissue donor after your death.

This will relieve them of the difficult task of making a decision following your death.

For further information, contact:

The National Transplant Resource Centre,
Hospital Kuala Lumpur.

Tel No. 03-9260066 / 03 -2942704 / 03-2942756