Donation Information & Organ Donor Registration
Learn how organ and tissue donation saves lives in the Quinte region and across Ontario. Whether you're registering as an organ donor or supporting someone on their transplant journey, this page provides trusted, clear information to help you make informed decisions.
Understanding Organ & Tissue Donation in Ontario
Organ donation plays a vital role in saving the lives of patients waiting for a transplant. In Ontario, thousands of individuals rely on the generosity of registered donors each year. By understanding how donation works, more families and supporters in the Quinte region can make informed decisions that truly make a difference.
Donation can include organs such as the heart, lungs, liver, kidneys, and pancreas, as well as tissue including corneas, bone, and skin. One donor has the potential to save up to 8 lives and enhance the lives of up to 75 others.
Registering as an organ donor ensures your wishes are known and recorded, helping families during difficult decisions while offering hope to those waiting for a second chance at life.
Key Benefits of Becoming a Donor
- Saves the lives of patients awaiting a transplant
- Supports families facing medical challenges
- Helps reduce wait times across Ontario
- Allows individuals to leave a lasting legacy of hope
- Strengthens community awareness and support
How to Register as an Organ Donor in Ontario
1. Visit the Ontario Donor Registry
The official Government of Ontario organ and tissue donor registry allows you to securely register your decision online. Your registration is legally recorded and can be accessed if needed.
2. Have Your Health Card Ready
To register, you will need your Ontario Health Card number. This helps verify your identity and ensures your donor status is correctly attached to your medical profile.
3. Make Your Decision Known
Once you register, your choice is recorded in the Ministry of Health database. It’s also important to share your decision with your family so they understand your wishes.
Check the Back of Your Health Card
Before registering online, take a moment to look at the back of your Ontario health card. Many people have already recorded their decision to be an organ and tissue donor and may not realize it.
If your card indicates that you are a donor, your wishes are already documented. If it does not, or if you’re unsure, you can easily confirm or update your donor registration online at any time.
We also encourage you to share your decision with your family so they understand your wishes and can honour them when it matters most.
