Tips for a good conversation

Discussing your choice in the Donor Register with your loved ones is important. This way, they know what you want if it is ever needed. But having such a conversation is not always easy. It can feel nerve-wracking or sad. Still, it helps to be open and talk together. Below you will find tips to make the conversation just a little easier.

Tips for a good conversation about your choice in the Donor Register:

• Choose a quiet moment
  Talk about it when you both have time. For example, during a walk, while cooking, or in the car. That often makes the conversation feel a bit easier.
• Tell why you think it is important to talk about this
  Explain why you want to share your choice. For example: 'I want you to know what I filled in in the Donor Register. Then you won't have to hesitate or be startled later when you hear my choice.'
• Be open about your choice and why you choose that
  Tell what you have filled in in the Donor Register. And why you chose that.
• Also listen to the other person
  Perhaps your family member or partner still has questions. Or he or she is doubting about donation themselves. Listen calmly and without judgment.
• Give room for feelings
  Talking about donation is also about life and death. That can feel sad or nerve-wracking. Give each other space and try not to judge.

Opening lines and questions

Do you find it difficult to start the conversation? A handy opening line might help you. Or start the conversation with a question, so that you immediately show that you are open to the opinion of someone else.

• 'I recently updated my choice in the Donor Register. Have you ever thought about that?'
• 'It feels like an important topic, but still we don't talk about it often. Shall we talk about organ donation for once?'
• 'Suppose something happens to me, then I want you to know what my wish is. That's why I wanted to talk about the Donor Register for a moment.'
• "Perhaps not the most cheerful topic, but have you ever looked into the Donor Register?"
• "I recently read something about organ donation, which made me think about my choice in the Donor Register. Would you like to know how I feel about it?"

Do you have any questions yourself about your choice in the Donor Register?Then check our frequently asked questions.