Yes, you can donate your eyes. In fact, nearly anyone can be a potential eye donor, regardless of age or medical history.
Eye donation is a generous act that can restore sight to individuals suffering from corneal blindness. The cornea is the clear, front part of the eye that helps to focus light. Damage or disease to the cornea can impair vision, and in some cases, lead to complete blindness.
Who Can Donate?
- Age: There is generally no age limit for eye donation.
- Medical History: Most people, even those with medical conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure, can donate their eyes. Your medical condition at the time of death will be evaluated to determine suitability. Conditions that may prevent donation include certain infectious diseases.
How Eye Donation Works
- Making the Pledge: You can register as an eye donor through your state's donor registry or by indicating your wish on your driver's license. Discussing your decision with your family is also crucial so they can honor your wishes.
- The Donation Process: After death, the eyes must be recovered within a few hours. The eye bank will evaluate the eyes to determine their suitability for transplantation.
- The Transplant: The cornea is carefully removed and transplanted to a recipient in need. One donor can potentially restore sight to two people.
Impact of Eye Donation
In 2014, eye banks in the United States provided over 76,000 corneas for transplant. Corneal transplants are highly successful, with over 95% of procedures resulting in improved vision. Eye donation offers a chance for a better quality of life for individuals facing corneal blindness. By becoming an eye donor, you can leave a lasting legacy of sight and hope.
