While it is important to talk about end of life decisions including organ donation, it is both possible and more common to donate organs and partial organs while living.

According to the National Kidney Foundation, (NKF) one in four Americans says he would consider donating a kidney to a stranger. Kidneys are the most common organ given by living donors. Other organs that can be donated while living include partial liver, lung, and pancreas.

Transplants from living donors are often more successful because of extensive pre-testing to ensure the best possible "match" based on medical criteria such as blood type. National statistics indicate about a 10% increased success rate after one year in the case of living donation.

For the donor, there is little danger in living with one kidney. The liver has the ability to regenerate and regain full function. Lungs and pancreas do not regenerate, but donors usually have no problems with reduced function.

Living donors must also be aware of the physical and psychological risks involved before they consent to donate an organ. They should discuss their thoughts and feelings with a doctor, psychiatrist/social worker, and/or transplant coordinator.

When it comes to organ donation, Heigl has no reservations and is quick to expose the truth.

"The need is always out there," says Heigl. "Make sure the people around you know your feelings on organ donation, so your loved ones can fulfil those wishes without any doubt."

 http://www.shareyourlife.org/

 http://www.kidney.org/

By W. Reed Moran, Spotlight Health
With medical adviser Stephen A. Shoop, M.D.