How to Donate Organs and Tissue

Organ and tissue donation saves lives and improves recipients’ health. It is an amazing way to make a difference for someone who needs a life-saving transplant and for their family and loved ones.

What do I do to become an organ or tissue donor?

At Western Financial Group, we offer Alberta Registry Services on behalf of the Government of Alberta. If you are over 18, we can help you register to become an organ and tissue donor.

You can also access the Alberta Organ and Tissue Donation Registry.

The need for organ and tissue donation in Canada

Despite the high need for donors, according to the Government of Canada, less than a quarter of Canadians are registered donors.

In the past decade, organ donation has increased by 42%, but the number of people needing a transplant has also increased. The Canadian population is aging and the Canadian government found that since December 31, 2019:

More than 4,300 people were waiting for organ transplants
249 people died waiting
3,014 organs were transplanted

The Canadian Institute for Health Information has noted there were more than 3 times as many people needing kidneys than all other organs combined. The median wait time for a kidney transplant from a deceased donor is around 3 years and 8 months.

How many people can you help when you register to donate?

When your register to become an organ and tissue donor, you can save up to 8 lives, improve the quality of life for as many as 75 people, and help many loved ones of people in need.

Is it possible to donate organs before you die?

Most donors consent to organ donation after death, but it is possible to donate while you are alive. If you are an adult and in good health, you can donate part of your liver, a kidney, or a lobe of your lung.

Why is it important to register if you want to donate?

In most parts of Canada, if you intend to donate tissue or organs after you die, you must register to be an organ and tissue donor. In some parts of the country, deemed consent or opt-out consent was introduced, which means you need to register only to modify your intent or opt out. Find out how to become an organ donor in your province or territory.

It is also important to discuss your wishes with your family because they will be asked what your wishes are by health care providers.

Western Registries locations

Western’s 11 registry locations in Alberta have been serving the public for over 20 years. We take pride in the service we give and in listening to our customers’ needs.

Alix

Alix Registries

4924 - 50th Street, Alix, AB

Tel: 403-747-2614

Fax: 403-747-3828

P415aliregistries@westernfg.ca

Bashaw

Bashaw Registries

4907 - 50th Street, Bashaw, AB

Tel: 780-372-3584

Fax: 780-372-3053

P611bswregistries@westernfg.ca