People who choose to be organ and tissue donors are often inspired by the spirit of giving and helping others. Here are some other ways you can help.

Blood Donation

Most organ transplants would not occur without adequate blood supplies, but only 4% of the population donates blood. One blood donation saves as many as three lives, and healthy adults can donate blood every 56 days.  Make saving lives a habit by donating regularly. Appointments to give blood can be coordinated through United Blood Services.  Make an appointment by calling 1-800-333-8037 or online at www.unitedbloodservices.org

Bone Marrow Donation

Each year, approximately 30,000 patients in the U.S. will be diagnosed with life-threatening diseases such as leukemia, which are treatable by a marrow or stem cell transplant. Just one in three will find a donor match within their family. Join the National Marrow Donor Program Registry all it takes is a simple blood test. Anyone between the ages of 18-60 and in good general health can join the Registry.  For more information on bone marrow donation contact the National Marrow Donor Program at www.marrow.org

Living Organ Donation

Giving the gift of life to another person is one of the most meaningful things a person can do.  Living donation is an option for a loved one or friend who is waiting for a transplant.  Certain organs such as a kidney, a portion of the liver, lung, pancreas or intestine, can be transplanted to help someone in need.  Today, more than 6,000 living donors per year give the gift of life to another person, and one in four of these living donors aren't biologically related to the recipient.  For information about living donation visit www.TransplantLiving.org or contact your local transplant center.

Body Donation for Research

After organs and tissues are recovered for transplant, it is possible to donate the rest of the body for medical research.  The International Institute for the Advancement of Medicine (IIAM). Remains are cremated and returned to family at no cost. No pre-registration is required.   For more information contact IIAM at 1-800-806-4426 or visit www.IIAM.org

Body Donation to Medical School

Information about donation to the UNM Medical School. Only corneas may be donated for transplant. Remains are cremated at no cost. Pre-registration is required. For more information contact the UNM School of Medicine, Anatomical Donation Program at 505-272-5555 or visit http://hsc.unm.edu/som/programs/donations/index.shtml