In 2016, nearly 50,000 Americans had their sight restored through cornea transplantation surgery.
They ranged from newborns to senior citizens and came from all walks of life. Disease or injury damaged their corneas, the clear outside part of the eye, robbing them of their sight. Other treatment options failed, leaving transplantation their only hope to read a book, to drive a car, to enjoy a sunset or to watch their children grow up.
Their sight was restored because caring individuals donated their corneas after they died, providing the essential tissue for transplant – there are no artificial or man-made substitutes. Thankfully, over half the adult population in America are registered as donors.
You can transform the life of someone suffering from corneal blindness; register to be an eye, organ and tissue donor, and let someone see life through your eyes.
- 95% of corneal transplants are successful.
- There is no cost to the donor or the donor family.
- Donation is consistent with the beliefs of all the major religions.
- Eye are removed from donors approximately 12 hours after death.
- Corneas are transplanted 3 to 6 days after donation.
- Donor/recipient information is anonymous and confidential.
- Special trained technicians carefully perform the surgical procedures from the donor.
- Great care is taken to preserve the appearance of the donor so an open casket funeral can be held if desired.
- Eyes cannot be designated for a specific person.
- Anyone 2 yrs to 68 yrs old may be a donor.