Understanding Your Loved One’s Decision
Donor designation is an individual’s right to make their own donation decision about organ, eye, and tissue donation and to indicate this decision on a legally recognized document of gift. Your loved one has already given authorization to become a donor and legally indicated their choice. LifeCenter Northwest’s role and responsibility is to work with you and your family to honor your loved one’s donation decision and ensure you understand how the donation process will move forward from here. We hope knowing the life-saving gift your loved one is offering to others brings you some comfort in the months and years ahead. Your loved one’s decision to donate life is a testament to their generosity and caring for others.
Our Commitment to You
Donation takes time to coordinate and we are here to support you through this experience. During this time you and your family can remain in the hospital room and continue to spend time with your loved one. You may also come and go as needed.
Our team will support you through every step of the donation process. If you have any questions about the process or what will happen next, please feel free to reach out to our Family Support team at any time: (425) 460-9640.
Before the recovery you will have time to say goodbye. We provide mementos to serve as a continuous connection to your loved one. In addition, we offer end of life observances prior to recovery to commemorate his/her life and honor their decision to give life to others. Our highly trained, professional staff is respectful of any personal requests you may have to honor your loved one during the donation process.
In the coming weeks and months, we’ll be here for you and your family. We know that everyone grieves differently, and we remain available to families for a minimum of 18 months after donation — to help as you move toward comfort and healing at your own pace.
Our Aftercare team will reach out to you in a few weeks to let you know about all the support that’s available to you. We offer many resources and referrals, and we’re always available by phone, even just to call and check in.
Frequently Asked Questions About Donation
Will donation affect funeral arrangements?
There is usually no impact, and donation still allows for the option of an open-casket funeral. Sometimes there can be a delay in funeral arrangements, but every situation is different. The medical team treats your loved one with the utmost respect throughout the entire process. Talk to us about how we can help with any cultural considerations, end-of-life rituals, or funeral needs that are important to your family.
How are the organs removed?
Organ removal occurs in a similar manner to any major surgery, in an operating room with specially trained doctors and nurses. Donors are treated with the utmost dignity and respect during this process.
Is there any pain or suffering?
No. Organ removal happens only after the heart has stopped beating and death has been declared. A person who has died no longer has any sensations and can feel no pain.
What organs and tissues can be donated?
Organs that are transplantable include the heart, kidneys, pancreas, lungs, liver, and small intestine. Tissues that can be donated include corneas, skin, bone, heart valves, ligaments, tendons, and vascular tissue (veins).
Does donation cost my family anything?
All costs associated with donation are paid by LifeCenter Northwest. Occasionally, families will receive a bill inappropriately. We will help you navigate the details if you receive a bill that should be directed to us.
Does my religion support organ donation?
Most major religions support organ and tissue donation as a humanitarian and selfless act of giving. To give of oneself in this way is the expression of a true, deep act of love for one’s neighbor. Leaders of many faiths believe that donation is a matter of individual decision and respect an individual’s right to make decisions regarding their own body.
Will I know how my loved one helped others?
Yes, we can provide information about the lives saved or improved through your loved one’s donation. Many families find comfort in knowing their loved one’s legacy of giving continues.
Can my family be involved in the donation decision?
We encourage open family discussions. If your loved one was a registered donor, we can guide you through understanding their wishes while also respecting your family’s feelings.
You Are Not Alone
LifeCenter Northwest will support you through each step of the donation process and offer ways to honor your loved one. Families are not responsible for healthcare costs related to donation. After donation, families are able to learn more about the recipients that their loved one saved. We offer all donor families an 18 month grief and bereavement program to continue to provide support.
Call our Family Support team with any questions: 425-460-9640
View a short video of a family who experienced loss and found comfort through donation:
