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As a living donor, what plans will I need to make?

Travel and lodging

You will need to plan travel to and from the transplant center for:

  • Evaluation appointments

  • The donation surgery

  • Follow-up appointments

If you do not live close to the transplant center, you may also need to plan for lodging, such as a hotel.

Caregiving

If you are a caregiver, you will have to make plans for care during:

  • Evaluation appointments

  • The donation surgery

  • Recovery from surgery, which may take several weeks

  • Follow-up appointments

Time off work

You will have to plan time off work for:

  • Evaluation appointments

  • The donation surgery

  • Recovery from surgery, which may take several weeks

  • Follow-up appointments

Costs

You may have expenses or out-of-pocket costs related to donor evaluation, surgery, and recovery, including:

  • Time off work, which may mean lost income if you don't have paid leave

  • Costs such as gas, meals, and lodging if you have to travel to and from the transplant center

  • Parking

Social support

The decision to donate is not easy. There is a lot to think about. Include your family and friends in the process to build strong support, such as:

  • Share with your friends, family, and primary care doctor that you are considering organ donation and share your reasons for donating.

  • Educate yourself and your support system on the benefits and risks of donating.

  • Share your feelings and concerns, such as surgery or financial questions, or getting back to your life after donating.

  • Talk with them about the emotional changes that can happen after donating. If they know ahead of time, they will be prepared to support you before and after donation surgery.

The more connected you are to your support system, the more likely you are to feel confident in your decision, keep your follow-up appointments, and feel more support for your emotional health after donating.

Planning for living organ donation

If you are exploring living organ donation, here are some additional considerations.

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