More NJ minorities need transplants than ever before
Although minorities make up 44% of the New Jersey population, they are 66% of our state’s transplant wait list.
Why minority donors are needed
People of most races and ethnicities in the U.S. donate in proportion to their representation in the population. The need for transplant in some groups, however, is disproportionately high, frequently due to a high incidence of conditions such as high blood pressure or diabetes, both of which can lead to the need for a kidney transplant.
Although organs are not matched according to race/ethnicity, and people of different races frequently match one another, all individuals waiting for an organ transplant will have a better chance of receiving one if there are large numbers of donors from their racial/ethnic background. This is because of compatible blood types and tissue markers—critical qualities for donor/recipient matching—are more likely to be found among members of the same ethnicity. A greater diversity of donors may potentially increase access to transplantation for everyone.
Learn the facts about organ donation
Will my own medical care be compromised if the hospital is aware that I have an organ donor designation on my license? Do all religions support organ and tissue donation? Can organ transplants be “bought” by the wealthy and powerful?
Get the answers to these and other questions
Help spread the word
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National Minority Donor Awareness Flyer
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Register as an organ and tissue donor
One donor can save 8 lives and restore health to over 75 others. Registration takes less than one minute!
1. Click here to register online now
2. iPhone Feature! Join the National Donate Life Registry using the Health app.
Saying “yes” is legal consent to the donation of your organs and tissue for transplantation and therapy. For those 18 years and older, your decision to donate cannot be revoked by anyone but you.
Talk with your family about organ and tissue donation
"Talea came into this world a miracle and she left the same way. My family was so happy to be able to share the gift of life through organ donation with other families."
Lakisha Bray
Mother of organ donor Talea Joy Sokes