National Organ Donor Day

Most people know that February 14 is Valentine’s Day, but it’s also National Organ Donor Day. This day was created to highlight the highest degree of love and compassion that people can show by donating organs to save others. It serves as a reminder of those who have donated organs, sometimes to help a loved one, and sometimes to save a stranger’s life.

History

For various medical reasons, a person may need an organ transplant. According to the law, transplants can only be performed with the consent of the donor or, in the event of death, the next of kin. In most cases, organs are donated posthumously, but living donors can give a kidney, or part of the liver, lungs, pancreas, or intestines.

The first successful corneal transplant was performed in 1905 by Czech surgeon Eduard Zirm. In 1950, the first successful kidney transplant from a living donor was carried out when Ronald Herrick donated a kidney to his twin brother. This medical breakthrough quickly made headlines, but doctors were initially cautious about transplantation. Over time, organ donation and transplants have become much more common, saving countless lives every year.

Interesting Facts

• In 2010, a team of doctors performed the first complete face transplant, marking a major breakthrough in medicine.
• The oldest known organ donor was a 107-year-old woman from Scotland who donated her organ to an elderly man from West Virginia.
• In 2014, a British woman chose to donate her kidney to a complete stranger after learning about the urgent need for donors.

How to Take Part

Not everyone can donate an organ, but on National Organ Donor Day, you can make a difference just by donating blood. Find the nearest donor center and help save someone’s life with a simple act. If you are able, consider registering as an organ donor or supporting charities that help patients in need of transplants. Every year, the number of people on transplant waiting lists grows, and every act of kindness counts.

When is National Organ Donor Day in 2026?

National Organ Donor Day is observed on February 14 each year.

Observations