Donor Information

Another new name gets added to the organ transplant waiting list every 14 minutes. But because there aren't enough available organs, 17 people die each day while desperately awaiting an organ transfer.

If you'd like to aid the cause, Vermont's Department of Motor Vehicles makes it extremely easy to let medical personnel know that you wish to donate your organs and tissues in the event of a fatal accident. All that's required is your signature on the designated organ donor line on the back of your driver's license.

Unlike a Uniform Donor Card (which you may also fill out), you do not need a witness to sign your driver's license. However, you are strongly encouraged to notify family members of your wishes.

When signing your license, you must declare if you're willing to donate all tissues (such as eyes, skin, heart valves, and cardiovascular tissue) and organs (such as kidneys, lungs, liver, and pancreas) or only a specific few.

For more information on organ donation, contact either of the following two agencies:

• Center for Donation and Transplant (western Vermont)

• (800) 256-7811

• New England Organ Bank

• (800) 446-6362