The Importance of Organ & Tissue Donation

Organ transplantation gives thousands of children and adults each year a renewed chance at living full and active lives. However, the need for organs and tissue outweighs their availability.

Committing to be an organ donor is a generous decision that can save the lives of up to eight individuals, and even more if a donor can give corneas and tissue. Almost anyone, regardless of age, race or gender, can become an organ and tissue donor, and there are no costs to the person’s family or estate.

Below are some basic facts about the need for organ donations and transplantations:

• Over 106,000 men, women and children are waiting for transplants nation-wide
• A single donor can save 8 lives with organ donation
• A single donor can enhance over 75 more with tissue and eye donation

(Source: HRSA | organdonor.gov)

In 1964, Lurie Children’s, known at the time as Children’s Memorial Hospital, performed its first transplant ever – a kidney transplant. Since then, the program has expanded to include heart, liver and intestinal transplants, and the number of transplants performed totals more than 1200. 

We wouldn’t be able to perform these transplants without commitments from donors. Lurie Children’s honors all of our families, and families throughout the United States who have made the selfless decision to donate their loved one’s organs. You are a hero.

Sign Up to be a Donor

Become an organ, eye and tissue donor today by clicking on a link below.

• Click here if you have an Illinois state ID or driver’s license 
• Click here if you have an Indiana state ID or driver’s license 
• Click here if you are from another state or don’t have a state ID 

Gift of Hope

Gift of Hope Organ & Tissue Donor Network is the Organ Procurement Organization that serves Illinois and northwest Indiana, and works with families to facilitate donation and offer support. Learn more.