You can save up to eight lives by being an organ donor. You can restore health to 50 lives by being a tissue donor. You have the power to save eight people with parents, siblings, and friends. You have the power to restore the lives of 50 people with bills, jobs, and responsibilities. These people are just like you and me.

Nationwide, there are more than 122,000 people waiting for a life-saving transplant and more than 15,000 are New York and New Jersey residents. Every 10 minutes another name is added onto the waiting list. At any moment that name could be your classmate, friend, or family member. So my question to you is, why aren't you a donor already?

People of all ages, nationalities, and medical histories can become an organ and tissue donor. There is no cost to save lives. Although there are many common misconceptions about the organ donation process in general. Let's clear some of that up.

1. Your medical history should not waive you from joining the registry. Each person's medical history is evaluated at their time of death, to determine what organs and tissues can be donated.

2. As a donor, your doctor WILL and I repeat WILL work as hard as they can to save your life. The first priority of a medical professional is to save lives. Organ donations are only considered after death is declared.

3. Your social or financial status does not determine your stance on the waiting list. There are a number of factors that determine your place on the list and those are not any of them!

4. After donation, a closed casket funeral is NOT the only option. Donors are treated with the utmost respect and dignity, allowing an open casket funeral if desired.

5. If religious beliefs are in question, speak to your spiritual advisors about organ and tissue donation. Most major religions support donation.

Not convinced? Watch the video below!

You can register online at:

http://www.organdonor.gov/becomingdonor/stateregis...

Pick your state and sign up TODAY!