An Educational Conversation About Eye Donation
February 14 has a special meaning for The Eye-Bank. In addition to being Valentine’s Day, it is also National Donor Day. This observance is supported by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to highlight the importance of eye, organ and tissue donation. For The Eye-Bank, it provides a special opportunity to express heartfelt thanks for our eye donors for giving the gift of sight as well as a way to increase awareness about the need for eye donation.
The following are answers to some common questions about eye donation. More information can be found at eyedonation.org, and you can contact us directly at info@ebsr.org.
Q: Who can become an eye donor?
A: Almost anyone can become an eye donor by enrolling in the New York State Donate Life Registry or by signing up at your local DMV office.
Q: If I wear eyeglasses, can I still be an eye donor?
A: Wearing eyeglasses will not prevent you from being an eye donor. Perfect vision is not required to be an eye donor. As long as the donor cornea is clear and healthy, it can provide much improved eyesight to the person needing a transplant.
Q: If I have diabetes or high-blood pressure can I still be an eye donor?
A: Yes, you can still become an eye donor. You can also consent for research so your donated ocular tissue can used by scientists working on treatments for other blinding eye diseases.
Q: Does race, gender or ethnicity of a person matter for eye donation?
A: No. Individuals of any race, gender, or ethnicity can be eye donors and potentially give the gift of sight to another. Unlike organ transplantation, corneal tissue does not need to be matched by blood type between donor and recipient. As a result, almost anyone can provide sight to someone else through eye donation.
Q: Will eye donation affect my loved one’s funeral arrangements?
A: Typically, eye donation does not affect funeral arrangements or having open-casket viewing. Eye donors are treated with dignity and care.
We urge everyone on National Donor Day to sign up on the New York State Donate Life Registry and help give the gift of sight and life to fellow New Yorkers in need.