News

April is Organ and Tissue Donation Awareness Month, and we’re encouraging Manitobans to STEP up and help save lives

S: Sign up to become an organ donor. One person can save up to eight lives!
T: Tell your loved ones about your choice. Even if you are registered, your family has the final say in organ donation. To spare them from a tough decision, share your wishes now so they can confidently honour them.
E: Encourage others. While 90% of Canadians support organ donation, only 32% are registered. Increasing registrations boosts the chances of saving lives.
P: Push the envelope! Talk to your employer about how they can support living organ donation in the workplace.

By joining the Circle of Excellence, they can show their dedication to their employees.

Right now, there aren’t enough donors to meet the demand for transplants. Choosing to be an organ donor is a personal choice that requires careful consideration. Learn more at signupforlife.ca.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why should I donate my organs?
Organ and tissue donation saves lives by providing essential treatments for those with damaged organs. With ongoing advancements, transplant outcomes are getting better each year, allowing patients to live longer and healthier lives.

Will doctors still try to save my life if I'm an organ donor?
Yes. Healthcare professionals prioritize saving lives, so organ donation is only considered when all efforts to save the patient have failed.

Does my age, ethnicity, pre-existing medical condition or sexual orientation prevent me from being a donor?
No. Anyone can register to be a donor, regardless of age, health, or sexual orientation. Eligibility is determined by healthcare professionals after death.

Can my family overrule my wishes to be a donor?
Manitoba's tissue donation agencies will always confirm a person's consent with their family. Families typically honour the donor's wishes if they know it's what their loved one wanted. Registering your consent helps your family feel confident about giving permission for donation. Donation won't happen without your family's consent.