If You Decide to Write
Choosing to write to your donor family is a
personal decision, and not one that needs
to be made immediately.
There is no time limit for corresponding with
your donor’s family. And what you choose to say
is entirely up to you.
Here are some suggestions to help guide you:
Be sensitive to the family’s feelings and be aware
that they are coping with loss and grief.
Acknowledge and express sympathy for the
family’s loss.
Express gratitude for the gift you have received.
Consider sharing how the transplant has affected
your life.
Feel free to share information about yourself,
your family, and your interests and occupation.
Do not include personal information, such as your
last name, street address, phone number, physician’s
name, hospital, or any other identifying information.
Sign only your first name.
Writing to Your
Donor’s Family
You have received a life-changing gift.
As a transplant recipient, you may want to
communicate with your donor’s family and
thank them for this gift.
Donor families often report that donation
has helped them with their grief. Receiving
a letter from a recipient provides the donor
family with consolation and assurance that
their loved one’s decision has improved lives.
