Day of organ donation on 6. June

The day of organ donation on 6. Every year, June reminds us of the importance of dealing with one's attitude towards organ and tissue donation. It does not focus on whether the answer is ‘yes’ or ‘no’. It is crucial that each and every person make an informed personal decision – and also documents it.

For many people, organ transplantation is the only opportunity for a longer or better life. At the end of 2025, around 8,300 patients were on the waiting list for a donor organ in Germany. At the same time, there were 953 organ donors throughout Germany. These figures show how important education, information and a conscious decision are.

Many people have already thought about organ donation, but their decision has not yet been taken. If there is no explanation in the case of seriousness, members are often asked what would probably have corresponded to the wish of the deceased person. Anyone who documents his decision creates clarity – regardless of whether he or she agrees or rejects an organ and tissue donation. At the same time, relatives are relieved in a situation which is already under strain.

There are many questions and uncertainties about organ donations. Important to know is: There is no fixed age limit for organ and tissue donation. The decisive factor is not the calendarian age, but the state of the organs and tissues. Even pre-disorders do not automatically exclude a donation. Whether a donation is possible is always checked individually. The medical treatment and rescue of patients always has top priority. A possible organ donation is only tested when a rescue is no longer possible.

Its own decision can be held in various ways. In addition to the classic organ donation card, the nationwide organ donation register has also been available since 2024. The decision can be entered, amended or revoked online there. Use is voluntary and free. The organ donation card can also be ordered or downloaded for free and is available in 29 languages.

Also in the district of Lörrach is informed about organ and tissue donation. At the clinics of the district, the transplant officer Babette Jansen accompanies the topic and supports the implementation of the corresponding processes in the hospital sector. In February, interested parties were already able to find out about organ transplantation and organ donation during an exhibition at the district hospital Lörrach.

Anyone who has questions can also be individually advised. The free information phone organ donation answers questions independently and understandably under 0800 90 40 400Monday to Friday from 9 am to 6 pm, or by e-mail to organpende@bioeg.de.

Organ donation day makes it clear: it is not about getting people to make a certain decision. It is about making the decision consciously.