Why Organ Donation Matters
Picture this: Not being able to eat your favorite foods, missing out on school trips and unable to physically play sports. On top of that, you are indefinitely confined to a hospital bed until a matching donor is found.
This is the everyday reality of someone on the organ donation waitlist.
You’re likely thinking, “How does this affect me?”
Well, let’s talk about why this issue affects you personally.
The Truth About Organ Donation
A major crisis is currently taking place in many American hospitals. Every day, 17 people in the U.S. die waiting for an organ transplant. In New York, we have one of the lowest organ registration rates nationwide.
Many people, even those who are able to donate, have misconceptions that prevent them from choosing to register. The most common misconception surrounding organ donation is bodily autonomy- doctors won’t work as hard to try to save your life if they see that you are a donor. There is no truth behind this myth and false narratives are often perpetuated by the media. Shows such as Grey’s Anatomy and The Good Doctor present a dramatized representation of hospitals. Doctors will always prioritize saving a patient’s life, because as part of their practice to become a physician, they must take the Hippocratic Oath. Based on the Hippocratic Oath, a code of conduct taken ever since ancient times, doctors must commit to uphold ethical standards.
Why Should You Care?
As a highschool student, you are constantly balancing coursework, extracurriculars and many other responsibilities. Thinking about organ donation may not be a priority. But here’s the thing: you can make a life-saving difference. Now imagine that someone you know- a family member or close friend, is in need of an organ. Many of you may be thinking these types of events are unlikely to happen to you. Until an issue becomes personal, emotionally connecting can be challenging. When it impacts our own lives and the lives of our loved ones, it becomes a situation that can’t be ignored. So, having that kind of willingness and empathy early on makes a difference.
How Can You Take Action?
Register as a donor: When you sign up for a driver’s license, you can register as an organ donor directly through the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). Likewise, while registering to vote in New York, there is a portion in the voting registration form where you can opt to donate your tissues and organs.
Think beyond organs: Along with organs, you can donate blood and bone marrow to help those in need. There are countless ways to help give the gift of life to others, especially for those who are healthy and capable of doing it.
And so, the next time someone asks, “Why should I become an organ donor?” Tell them it’s about giving someone else a second chance at life.
