The Benefits of Organ Donation

It is estimated that a new name is added to the national organ transplant waiting list every 16 minutes. Thousands die each year due to the lack of organ donors in America.

In New Mexico, there is a severe shortage, particularly of minority donors. An average of only one Native American becomes a donor each year, a number that many in New Mexico are trying to improve.

Donation Facts

• One donor can benefit up to 100 patients.

• Becoming a donor won't cost your family anything.

• Almost anyone can become a donor, including the elderly and those with medical problems.

• All major religious organizations within the United States support organ and tissue donations.

• Donations won't alter or delay funeral plans; an open casket is still possible.

How to Register

When applying for or renewing a driver's license or ID card, you can register as an organ donor. You'll be given a red heart sticker to affix to your driver's license or ID card.

Donors must be at least 15 years old to register on their own; if you're under that age, you'll need the consent of your parent of guardian.

Those who already have a license or ID card may add their choice to become a donor by picking up a sticker from any MVD field office.

You may also indicate your donor decision by completing a Uniform Donor Card and keeping it in your wallet or purse.

Additional Information

The New Mexico Donor Services, headquartered in Albuquerque, handles organ and tissue donations within the state.

For more information, contact the organization at:

• New Mexico Donor Services

• 2715 Broadbent Parkway NE, Suite J

• Albuquerque, NM 87107

• (800) 843-7672

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