Top Making the Decision to Donate

With more than 700 Connecticut residents on the waiting list for new organs, the state makes it easy to register as an organ donor. In fact, you may become an organ and tissue donor at any time. Just keep in mind it's a topic you might want to discuss with your family.

When you renew or receive your license, you will be given a donor card. If you wish to become an organ/tissue donor, sign and return the card, indicating that you give legal consent for your organs and tissues to be donated to an organ procurement organization (OPO) in the event of your death. If you wish to change your donor status, simply contact the Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles.

Top Facts About Donation

To understand the facts about donation, Donate Life Connecticut publishes Myths and Misconceptions on its Web site as a way to explain the process.

Signing the organ donor card and returning it to the DMV means you have legally agreed to donate your organs and tissues in the event of your death. No other permission is required, unless you are younger than 18. Minors require a parental signature before they are allowed to become organ donors. If you've changed your mind and decided not to be an organ donor, simply notify the DMV and destroy your organ donor card.

Top What Gets Donated?

Organ procurement organizations are organ and tissue clearinghouses that act as conduits to those looking for transplants and replacements. They are interested in the heart, liver, lungs, kidneys, pancreas, and small intestine. They also procure corneas, skin, bone, heart valves, connective tissues, and blood vessels.

Our content is updated based on input from users like you. Help make it better!