Becoming a registered organ donor is one of the most selfless acts a person can make. Despite the life-saving potential, many people are hesitant to become organ donors due to misunderstandings. Transplant surgeon A. David Salzberg, MD, debunks some of the most common myths:
Myth #1: Doctors won’t try as hard to save my life if I’m a registered organ donor.
Fact: Your life always comes first. Doctors are ethically and legally obligated to do everything possible to save a patient's life. “Organ donation is only considered after all life-saving efforts have failed and death has been officially declared by a separate team from those involved in transplants,” Dr. Salzberg explains.
Myth #2: I’m too old or have health problems, so I can’t donate.
Fact: There’s no age limit for organ donation and having a medical condition doesn’t always disqualify you. In fact, donors in their 70s and older have successfully saved lives.
Myth #3: Rich or famous people get transplant priority.
Fact: Organs are received based on medical criteria like compatibility, illness severity and time spent on the waiting list—not on a person’s wealth or status. “The system is strictly regulated to make sure it stays fair,” notes Dr. Salzberg.
Myth #4: If I sign up as a donor, I can’t change my mind later.
Fact: Registering as a donor is voluntary and can be updated or canceled at any time. You can make changes through the Virginia Donor Registry or DMV. No matter your decision, it’s important to communicate your wishes to your loved ones.
Every registered donor has the potential to save up to 8 lives through organ donation. With roughly 3,000 patients currently waiting for transplants in Virginia alone, every registration counts.
If you're ready to make a difference, consider registering as an organ donor today. Visit donatelifevirginia.org to learn more.
