This release was issued under a previous government.

April 17 – 23 is National Organ and Tissue Donation Awareness Week in Canada. With more than 600 Albertans waiting for an organ transplant, and many more waiting for tissues, increasing the number of Albertans registered as donors is an important part of improving health outcomes.

Individuals can register their consent to donate at ultimategiftalberta.ca, and also have the opportunity to register when renewing or applying for a driver’s licence or identification card. Since the registry launched in April 2014, more than 230,000 Albertans have registered their consent to donate.

Talking to your family and friends about your wish to donate is also important, so they can support your choice when the time comes.

Facts About Organ and Tissue Donation

  • Alberta’s rate of deceased donors is increasing, from 9.9 deceased donors per million population in 2012, to 13.6 in 2014.
  • Tissue donation is equally as important as organ donation. For example, donated corneas can restore sight and heart valves are life-saving.
  • About 2,500 Albertans register every week to become organ and tissue donors.
  • Just one organ and tissue donor can save up to eight lives and make life better for up to 75 other people.

To register your consent to donate, or to learn more about organ and tissue donation, please visit ultimategiftalberta.ca.