Writing to Recipients

What should I say?

Write about information you feel comfortable sharing about yourself and your loved one who donated their organ(s) and/or tissue. You can include information about other family members. Feel free to discuss your loved one’s occupation, hobbies or special things your loved one liked to do. Recipients are genuinely interested in details about their donor. After all, this person has had a profound effect on their life.

You should keep identities anonymous and confidential by NOT including any last names, street addresses, city names, phone numbers, email addresses, names of hospitals or physicians. All letters will be screened for confidentiality and appropriateness. If there is a concern with your letter, an aftercare coordinator will contact you; so please make sure we have your contact information available. If you wish to send a card, letter or picture; you may send it to the address below or via the online form on this page.

Will the recipient(s) respond to my letter?

Recipients almost always appreciate the opportunity to hear from the donor family about their donor. However, some feel unable to express their emotional response adequately on paper. Many feel so indebted; they find words inadequate to express their gratitude. Therefore, there is no guarantee that you will receive a response. The timing of a reply will vary with individual circumstances. Please do not feel that your expression of interest is unwelcome. Your concern for these people who benefited from your loved one’s generosity is greatly appreciated.

Since some of the recipients live a great distance away, please allow several weeks for the exchange of correspondence to occur.