Communicating with Donor Families

Most families find comfort in hearing from the recipients of their loved one's organs. A simple card, thank-you note or letter can be uplifting to the family and reassure them that they made a wonderful decision to help others in the midst of their grief.

It is important to note that the information in this section should serve as general guidelines.

Your individual transplant center may have some additional guidelines or regulations regarding donor/recipient communications. Be sure to consult with your transplant coordinator or social worker. If you decide to write to your donor family, the suggestions included here may be of help.

You may want to tell something about yourself

• First names may be included
• Your job or occupation
• Your family (marital status, children, grandchildren)
• Hobbies or interests
• When making religious comments, please keep in mind that the donor's religion is unknown

You may want to share your transplant experience

• Thank your donor family for their generous gift.
• Use language everyone will understand.
• Tell how long you waited for your transplant.
• Describe how the transplant changed or improved your life.
• Are you able to do things that were not possible before the transplant?
• Share something about your life since the transplant.
• Did you return to work or school?
• Have you seen the birth, graduation or marriage of family members?

Closing your card or letter

• Please use first names only, not your full name, address, phone number or e-mail address.
• Do not give the hospital or physician's name.

When mailing your card or letter, be sure to:

• Include a separate piece of paper with your name, the organ received, transplant center and date of transplant.  

Thank you for writing to your donor family. We know that families appreciate hearing from the recipients. We also understand how difficult it may be for you to write to the family. We thank you for your thoughtfulness.

For more information or to find out how to receive special cards created to initiate this communication, please contact us at familyservices@lopa.org or 1-800-521-GIVE.

Return to the Family Support page