Talking about your choice in the Donor Register
Why is it important to talk about your choice in the Donor Register? And how do you have that conversation? Read more about it here.
If you have registered a choice in the Donor Register, doctors and your family will know how you felt about organ and tissue donation when you pass away. That is good, because clarity provides peace of mind in an already sad situation. Still, it is good to discuss your choice with the people who are important to you at an earlier moment.
Why talk about your choice?
If your loved ones have no idea how you felt about organ and tissue donation, they may be caught off guard by your choice. For example, if they did not know that you had indicated that they could decide for you whether or not you become an organ donor. This causes extra sadness and stress during a time when there are already many difficult moments.
Personal stories
‘My mother gave others a second life’
Michelle lost her mother to a brain hemorrhage. Two years later, she looks back: with sadness, but also with pride and gratitude.
‘You cannot give someone who is so sick a greater gift’
Nienke suffered a severe brain hemorrhage. The fact that she was able to give 6 people a better life makes her death less meaningless for her mother, Gerda.
'His strong 19-year-old organs still had a life to go'
Joris saved four lives with his organs. His mother, Nicole, talks about his choice, the farewell, and the lasting memory.
Tips for a good conversation
Some people find donation and the choice in the Donor Register difficult topics to discuss at home. We don't tend to talk about it easily with our friends and family. Fortunately, it doesn't have to be a heavy or difficult conversation at all. Perhaps these tips can help you:
- Choose a quiet moment
- Tell why you think it is important to talk about your choice
- Give space to feelings that arise
Week of the Donor Conversation
Have you already had the conversation about your choice in the Donor Register with your loved ones? The Week of the Donor Conversation is all about that important conversation regarding organ and tissue donation and your opinion on it. The Week of the Donor Conversation is from October 13 to October 19, 2026.