DONOR FAMILY CARE
Offering a shoulder to lean on.
No matter the circumstance, the loss of a loved one can be difficult for anyone. That’s why we created our donor family care program to support families as they make their way through the grieving process. All our donor families are welcome to take advantage of any of these services.
Letters & Cards of Support
It is important for donor families to learn that their loved one’s gift helped restore sight & health. Soon after the transplant takes place, the donor family receives a letter of thanks that also provides a little information about the recipient. Each donor family will also receive a crystal teardrop in memory of the donor who gave the precious gifts of sight and health.
Personal Phone Calls of Support
During the year following donation, our Donor Family Care Coordinator calls families to offer a listening ear and support. For a donor family, it is important to tell the story of their loved one, to share thoughts and feelings, and to hear their loved one’s name spoken out loud. These calls also allow us to get to know the grief journey and to tailor our program to each individual. We can also help find local professional assistance and resources.
Tribute Events
Throughout the year, we hold tribute events where donor families and transplant recipients are invited together to celebrate the gifts of sight and health. Donor families are honored through various components of the event including an honor table, slideshow, speakers, and the roll call of honor is read aloud. Transplant recipients can also share their story and show appreciation to the donors.
Donor Quilt
We invite donor families to submit a quilt square in memory of their loved one. The squares are stitched together with love, and a quilt is made to honor the donors. The squares often include a special memory, hobby or interest, or other facet of the donor’s life. Donor families are encouraged to write a short story about the creation of their quilt square and what it means to them.
Writing to the Recipient
If the donor family wishes to write to the recipient, we act as the intermediary to ensure confidentiality and to respect privacy. Writing this letter can be helpful in the grieving process. And transplant recipients consistently express appreciation for the letters they receive.
Find grief support today.
If you or a loved one is interested in participating in any of our donor family care programs, we would be happy to provide more information.