For many donor families, the decision to donate is the first step in the healing process. Most families find comfort in knowing that part of their loved one will live on in someone else and at the same time will save or enhance the lives of others.

The CDT organ procurement coordinator remains at the hospital with the patient and family to ensure that all of the family’s wishes are carried out accordingly. The coordinator serves as support and a resource throughout the donation process. When appropriate, another support mechanism, the MOD Squad (Mothers of Organ Donors) is introduced.

Family Aftercare

Some time after the donation process is complete, the donor families receive a packet in the mail including generic information regarding who received their loved one’s organs and how they are doing. The packet also includes literature to aid in the grieving process, as well as a holiday packet. At the year anniversary of their loved one’s death, the family receives a remembrance card from CDT.

Events & Activities

CDT hosts a number of activities and events for donor families. The donor memorial service is held on an annual basis to honor CDT’s organ and tissue donors. Families are invited to attend and pay tribute to their loved ones and be recognized for their generous decision to donate life. CDT also hosts an annual “Celebration of Life” picnic for donor families, transplant recipients and their families, and healthcare professionals.

Interested families are also invited to join CDT’s volunteer program. Our volunteer group is mostly composed of people directly affected by donation or transplantation. There are a variety of activities you can participate in as a volunteer.

Kaleidoscope of Memories Donor Quilt

CDT’s donor quilt is a beautiful display dedicated to givers of the gift of life. The quilt is composed of patches created by donor families in honor of their loved ones. It also serves as a reminder of the importance of organ and tissue donation and may be displayed at public events and on our website. All of our donor families are invited to submit a patch. Your quilt patch should be an 8-inch square, allowing for a ½ inch seam on all four sides (design should be within 7 inches). If you wish, you may include a photograph and some special thoughts about your loved one that will accompany the quilt when it is displayed. For more information on how to create a patch, please call (518) 262-5606.

Writing to Recipients

Donor families and recipients are able to communicate with one another anonymously through CDT if they choose to. We first obtain permission from the family to send along letters from recipients.