Frequently Asked Questions
What is allograft?
Allograft is any human tissue that is transplanted from one person to another.
How many people can benefit from one tissue donor?
While the number patients helped by one donor can vary, it is not unusual for as many as 100 people to be helped by a single donor.
Who can donate?
Almost anyone of any age can be a tissue donor. Oftentimes people who cannot donate for transplant can still donate tissue for medical research or education. The tissue bank will review the donors medical records and history to determine what tissue can be donated.
Does my religion accept donation?
Most religions support and consider donation as an act of charity. It is a way to affirm the deceased’s generosity and goodness. If you have questions about the beliefs of your religion, you should discuss them with your spiritual advisor.
My family members do not believe in donation. How can I make sure that I will be a donor?
Document your decision to donate on the Florida Donor Registry. Under Florida Law, your decision to donate is considered an advanced health care directive and cannot be changed by any individual. We strongly encourage individuals to stress to their loved ones how important it is for their donation wishes to be carried out.
Who is considered to be my next of kin?
- Health Care Surrogate
- Spouse of the decedent
- Adult son or daughter of the decedent
- Either parent of the decedent
- An adult brother or sister of the decedent
- An adult grandchild of the decedent
- A grandparent of the decedent
- A close personal friend
- A guardian of the person of the decedent at the time of his or her death
- A representative ad litem
Does the family receive any payment related to the donation?
Under the National Organ Transplant Act, a donor or family may not be paid for any donations.
How does donation affect funeral arrangements?
Your decision to donate should not interfere with funeral arrangements. However, it is important that you let your funeral home of choice know of your desire to donate and if it fits with their ability to care for a tissue donor. Donation should not delay funeral arrangements or add to the cost. With funeral homes supporting donation, the body is carefully reconstructed and a normal funeral service may be held.
Will donation incur a cost?
Donation is a wonderful gift, and the family should never be charged for anything related to donation. If you receive a bill from a hospital or funeral home that you believe includes donation costs, please contact us.
Can an organ donor also be a tissue donor?
Yes. If a donor meets criteria for both, organs and tissues can be recovered at the same time.
