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How do I register as an organ and tissue donor?

Your choice to be an organ and tissue donor allows you to save up to eight lives and help up to 75 others, even after your death.

You can choose to donate the following organs and tissues:

Why should I register?

When you decide to become a donor you must register your consent with the Government of Ontario even if you have already signed a donor card. This registration confirms your consent, and you can be sure that your wishes will be known and respected.

Trillium Gift of Life Network will contact your family to confirm your consent if the situation arises. In most cases, families choose to follow the wishes of their loved ones. It is a good idea that you inform your family of your wish to be a donor once you complete your registration.

Who can register?

Anyone over the age of 16 can register for organ and tissue donation. You will need to have a valid Ontario Health Card (OHIP) number. The suitability of each donor is assessed on a case-by-case basis and at the time of donation.

When you register you can choose which organs or tissues to donate and if they are not eligible for a donation you can consent for them to be used for research.

What steps should I take?

You can complete your registration:

• Online, through ServiceOntario's dedicated portal
• In person at any ServiceOntario location
• By mail, you can submit your completed consent form

Can I change my mind?

Yes, you can withdraw or change which organs or tissues you wish to at any time, either online or by writing to:
Organ Donor Consent - ServiceOntario
PO Box 48
Kingston ON
K7L 5J3

Living Organ Donation

You can also donate certain organs when you’re alive. You may be eligible to become a living kidney and liver donor. You will have to go through the medical testing and screening process. You may also be eligible to join the national stem cell registry. Most people go through the screening process because someone they know needs a donation, but you can also join the registry to donate to someone else in need.

Will my family be able to plan my funeral?

Organ and tissue donation does not impact funeral plans. Cremation and an open casket funeral are both possible. If organ and tissue donation are important to you, you should talk to your family to be sure they understand your wishes.

For More Information

• Trillium Gift of Life Network - Trillium Network is an agency of Ontario Health responsible for providing and coordinating organ and tissue donation and transplantation services across the province.
• Organ and tissue donor registration - Information from the Government of Ontario.
• Be A Donor - You can learn more about how a donation can save lives and the current statistics of people waiting for donations. From Trillium Gift of Life Network (TGLN).
• How can I donate blood? - Blood and blood products are essential for everyday medical care. From Settlement.Org.