Kentucky Organ Donor Affiliates is seeing a sizeable increase in organ donations, even during the current pandemic. KODA Vice President of Strategic Partnerships Shelley Snyder says donations are up 25% compared to the same period in 2019.
She said sometimes people with certain health conditions will think they are not eligible to register. Snyder added there are no limits on who can register. “We had somebody call our office once and she was so sad, she was heartbroken and said, ‘you know, I’ve just been diagnosed with cancer and I know I have to remove my name from the registry because of that.’ And we said, ‘no you don’t.’ And even someone who dies of active cancer can donate corneas and give sight to two people,” said Snyder.
Snyder attributes the increase in donations to increased family discussion about the need along with the fact that today some 60% of Kentuckians are registered as organ donors. “If a patient is not registered and it’s up to the family what the decision is, it’s just been amazing to see so many families say yes and recognize that their loved ones could save up to eight lives simply by saying yes to this incredible mission. It’s certainly the worst moments of their life but making a miracle for another family,” said Snyder.
Snyder said the biggest need is the donation of a kidney, but all are important.
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