Learn the Facts

Mississippi Organ Recovery Agency strives to educate the public on the importance of organ, eye and tissue donation by answering any and all questions people have about donation.  There are many myths and misconceptions about donation that people believe to be fact.  Below are some of our most commonly heard myths and the facts behind the myths.


Myth:

If they see I have a red heart on my license, they won’t try to save my life.

Fact:

When you are sick or injured and admitted to a hospital, the one and only priority is to save your life.  Only after all efforts have been exhausted in saving a patient’s life and death has been declared by the attending physician will organ and/or tissue recovery take place.


Myth:

My family will have to pay for the donation.

Fact:

There is NO cost to donor families for the expense related to organ, eye and tissue donation.


Myth:

My family will not be able to have an open casket funeral if I’m a donor.

Fact:

An open casket is possible for an organ, eye and tissue donation.  Through the entire donation process, the body is treated with care, respect, and dignity.


Myth:

I don’t think my religion supports organ donation.

Fact:

Most major religions in the United States support organ donation and consider donation as the final act of love and generosity toward others. Click here for more information.


Myth:

I’m too old to be a donor.

Fact:

There is no age limit to organ donation.  To date, the oldest donor in the U.S. was age 95.  What matters is the health and condition of your organs when you die.