The Power to Make a Difference: Donating Tissue to Science in Your Lifetime
How many Americans would make a phone call when scheduling surgery, to donate the tissue that would otherwise be discarded, if they knew that a scientist was waiting for it in order to test a breakthrough theory, develop a new medication, or perhaps find a cure? We bet a lot would, if they only knew that it’s simple to donate, there is no cost involved, and the tissue is urgently needed.
Most people think you can only donate tissue or organs to science after death, but the truth is that each of us has the power to impact science during our lifetime. Human tissue – whether healthy or diseased -- is precious to researchers developing cures for nearly every disease imaginable – from cancer to diabetes, glaucoma, Parkinson’s and HIV/AIDS.
When do you have the power to make a difference? Whenever you schedule surgery or at the time of the birth of a baby. At these times, you have the power to contribute the stuff of which scientific discovery is made:
- At the birth of a child: the umbilical cord, placenta and amniotic fluid are a rich, non-controversial source of stem cells for research into neurological diseases, heart disease, cancer, and more.
- Plastic surgery: skin, bone, cartilage, and particularly the fat removed during liposuction is useful to scientists.
- Tumor surgery: removed tumors provide important specimens to scientists developing therapies for a wide range of cancers.
- Hip or knee replacement: bone and cartilage is also studied for insight into how the body repairs itself.
- Transplant surgery: The diseased organ removed during transplant is valuable to researchers, and would otherwise be discarded.
If you are diabetic, have a rare disease or HIV, your tissue post-surgery is particularly in demand.
The donation process:
As soon as you have scheduled surgery, call NDRI at 1.800.222.NDRI (6374), and we’ll make the arrangements. It’s that simple, and there is no cost to you or your family.
Tissue donation from surgery is a win-win for everyone, and enables each of us to make a positive contribution during a difficult, stressful, or special time in our lives. Donation is an affirmation of your ability to advance science for the public good. Scientists are waiting. Will you contribute when you can? Call us – we’ll do the rest.