According to the United Network for Organ Sharing, more than 110,000 patients are waiting for organ donations. Would you be willing to give the gift of life?

For those waiting to receive an organ, the journey can be a long and emotionally draining one. These organizations can help you get the knowledge, support and advice you need as you explore the transplantation process.
Coalition of Donation
Donate Life America is a nonprofit organization committed to increasing organ, eye and tissue donation. The organization aims to educate Americans and offer a variety of ways to get involved. The website also shares inspirational stories of hope of successful organ donation.

United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS)
United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) is a private, nonprofit organization that manages the nation's organ transplant system under contract with the federal government.

UNOS is involved in many aspects of organ donation, including providing assistance to patients, family members and friends, and educating transplant professionals about their role in the donation process.

Transplant Living
Transplant Living helps prepare donors and recipients for the donation or transplantation process. This organization also has information about different diseases, living with devices, getting on the list, selecting a hospital and financing a transplant.

U.S. Department of Health & Human Services - Division of Transplantation
The Division of Transplantation (DoT), a division within the Department of Health and Human Services, is the primary federal organization responsible for organ and blood stem cell transplant systems in the United States. They also spearhead initiatives to increase organ donation across America.

DoT's website includes information about why you should register to be a donor, how to become a donor and other ways you can help in the community.

U.S. Department of Health & Human Services - Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network
The mission of the Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network (OPTN) is to increase the number of deceased donors.

OPTN also maintains the only national patient waiting list, and facilitates the organ matching and placement process, which operates 24 hours a day.

More on organ donation
How a donated heart saved the life of an NFL star's daughter
Become an organ donor
Stories of successful transplants
Published 04/19/2011
Please note that Harpo Productions, Inc., OWN: Oprah Winfrey Network, Discovery Communications LLC and their affiliated companies and entities have no affiliation with and do not endorse those entities or websites referenced above, which are provided solely as a courtesy. Please conduct your own independent investigation (including an investigation as to whether any contributions are tax deductible) before donating to any charity, project or organization. This information is provided for your reference only.

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