New England Donor Services Achieves Milestone in Organ Donation

Record Organ Donations Reported by New England Donor Services

New England Donor Services (NEDS) has proudly announced a remarkable achievement in organ donations. In 2024, they reported coordinating donations from 648 deceased donors, resulting in a staggering 1,570 life-saving transplants. This notable performance marks a continuation of growth in organ procurement over four consecutive years, solidifying NEDS's position among the top three organ procurement organizations (OPOs) in the nation by donor volume. Since the beginning of 2020, the organization has successfully increased the annual number of organ donors by an impressive 80 percent.

Impact of Tissue Donations

In addition to organ donations, NEDS successfully coordinated the recovery of tissue from 1,840 donors, including critical tissues such as corneas, bones, skin, and heart valves. These tissues are essential for medical procedures that not only heal but also significantly improve the quality of life for countless individuals. Notably, the past year saw an increased demand for skin grafts, which are vital in post-mastectomy care. Each year, tissue donated through NEDS contributes to over 100,000 successful tissue transplants, reflecting the organization’s significant impact in the community.

The Heartfelt Words of a Recipient

The emotional weight of organ donation is often conveyed best through the stories of recipients. Stephanie McCarthy, a heart transplant recipient in her early thirties from Ipswich, MA, eloquently illustrated this sentiment when she shared, “The strength of a donor family to give hope to strangers in the face of tragedy is immeasurable to me. My donor’s heart continues to beat in my chest as a quiet reminder that they remain here as my hero helping me live this new chapter of life.”

Key Achievements and Future Goals

This year also marked a series of milestones for NEDS. In June, they coordinated an unprecedented 64 organ donors, resulting in 154 transplants in a single month—the highest in New England history. By November, NEDS had reached 600 donors for the year, the first time this milestone had been accomplished in the region.

Factors Contributing to Success

Several factors have contributed to this record-breaking performance. Firstly, NEDS staff have improved engagement with families during end-of-life discussions, which helps ensure that organ donation is accurately positioned within the family’s timeline. They also employ state-of-the-art organ perfusion devices, enhancing the function of organs prior to transplant. Furthermore, the organization has onboarded three full-time surgeons dedicated to the recovery of organs from donors, significantly increasing efficiency compared to relying on transplant center surgeons alone. NEDS’s ability to attract and retain top clinical talent is another critical factor that enables them to maximize every donation potential.

Importance of Organ and Tissue Donation

One organ donor has the potential to save up to eight lives, while one tissue donor can heal as many as 75 individuals. New England residents are encouraged to register as donors during their driver's license application or via numerous health apps like the Apple iPhone health app. Registration can also be completed through the national Donate Life Donor Registry.

About New England Donor Services

New England Donor Services is a distinguished nonprofit organization responsible for organ and tissue donations across several states. Co-founded in 1968 by Nobel Laureate Dr. Joseph Murray, known for performing the world's first successful organ transplant, NEDS continues to partner with thousands of donors and their families who make the noble decision to give the gift of life. Their dedicated team meticulously screens referrals for potential donation and leads crucial conversations with families while ensuring medical support for donors. NEDS also skillfully allocates organs based on the national transplant waiting list and oversees their timely transport, ensuring that life-saving organs reach patients when they are needed most.

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the total number of organ donations coordinated by NEDS in 2024?

NEDS coordinated organ donations from 648 deceased donors, resulting in 1,570 life-saving transplants.

How many tissue donors did NEDS coordinate?

NEDS coordinated the recovery of tissue from 1,840 donors during the year.

What notable milestone did NEDS achieve in June 2024?

In June 2024, NEDS coordinated 64 organ donors, resulting in 154 life-saving transplants, the highest for a single month in New England's history.

Who is the President and CEO of New England Donor Services?

Alexandra K. Glazier serves as the President and CEO of New England Donor Services.

How can individuals register as organ and tissue donors?

Individuals can register as donors during their driver's license application or through health apps like the Apple iPhone health app, as well as through the national Donate Life Donor Registry.

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