Why teach about organ and tissue donation?
Each year thousands of California high school students apply for their first driver’s license or identification (ID) card. They are presented with the opportunity to join the organ and tissue donor registry through Donate Life California. Many students are unaware of what being a donor means and how they can greatly help their communities by checking “yes” to donation when applying for their driver’s license. Providing information to students prior to going to the DMV allows them to make an educated decision.
The subject of organ and tissue donation is intrinsically interesting, it is easy to understand and appeals to youthful altruism. Transplantation and donation issues can be part of a standards-based health science guide and in fact, it is in many states. Learning about the science behind donation and the miracle of transplantation can encourage students to share their decision with their family and friends. By educating our youth about the importance of joining the registry, we can help narrow the gap between transplant candidates on the waiting list and lifesaving donations.
