The first ever successful organ transplant occurred in 1954, transplanting a kidney. In the late 1960s, liver, heart, and pancreas transplants were successfully completed and the 1980s proved to be successful for lung and intestinal organ transplant procedures. In 1977, the first ever computer-based organ matching system was created by Southeast Organ Procurement Foundation (SEOPRF). The program was known as the “United Network for Organ Sharing,” now known by its anonym UNOS.
In 2024, the United States set a new record: completing the most organ transplants in a calendar year. Over 48,000 lifesaving transplants occurred, a 3.3% increase from 2023 and a 23.3% increase from 2020. However, these record-breaking numbers could not be achieved without the generosity of organ donors.
There is always a need for more organ, eye, and tissue donors. In Illinois, the Secretary of State’s Office hosts the Life Goes On Organ Tissue Donor Program, with the mission of strengthening Illinois’ Organ/Tissue Donor Registry through various outreach and registration initiatives. The program is responsible for encouraging people to register as donors.
Becoming a Registered Organ Donor
To become an organ donor in Illinois, the process is simple. Choose to either visit lifegoeson.com, go to your local DMV, or call 1-(800) 210-2106. The forms are not exhaustive, and rather just ask for simple information, like name and address.
The forms are first-person consent, meaning that submission of the form makes it legally binding. Those aged 18 and older do not need additional consent, but those aged 16 and 17 must obtain parental consent to be a registered donor. In Illinois, those aged 15 and younger are ineligible to become registered donors.
If you change your mind and would like to withdraw, the Secretary of State’s Office has a revocation form. Once submitted and received, you will no longer be considered a registered organ donor.
Myths and Misconceptions
Due to the many myths and misconceptions about organ donation, many individuals choose not to opt-in to the program. Here are some of the most debunked theories, from the Illinois Secretary of State’s Office:
- Doctors and medical staff will not work hard to save the life of an organ donor since the need for organ donations is high.
False: Organ donors are required to receive the same level of care as any other patient. Donation is only considered after brain death is declared and the doctors who work in the ER versus in organ transplant procedures are different (different than living donation, which does not require brain death).
- I am too old or sick to be a donor.
False: Anyone can be a potential donor, regardless of age or medical history. What may be donated is considered at the time of death, if donation is possible.
- I don’t want my family to have to pay for the donation.
False: Families are never charged for the removal of organs, nor do they receive compensation. All costs associated are covered by the organ procurement organization (OPO).
- Rich and famous people move to the top of the waiting list, and every day people must wait longer.
False: Organ matching is done through a computerized system, dependent on criteria regarding severity of illness, blood type, time on the waiting list, other medical information, and geographical location.
More than just organs may be donated to help someone in need. Thanks to advances in medicine and technology, what may be donated continues to expand and now includes:
- Blood and platelets
- Blood stem cells and cord blood
- Bone marrow
- Corneas (eye)
- Tissues like bone, cartilage, heart valves, ligaments, the middle ear, skin, tendons, and veins
- Recently faces and hands have been approved for transplants
While organ donation is an incredible gift, it is important to be fully informed about your decision. Below are some additional resources outlining organ, eye, and tissue donation.