Findings from the 2005 University of Minnesota State Survey show that 96 percent of Minnesotans support organ donation -- yet figures from the Minnesota Department of Public Safety indicate that only 43 percent have "donor" marked on their driver's license or ID card.
The University of Minnesota survey found that 27 percent of individuals didn't check the box on their driver's license because they haven't gotten around to it. Another 22.6 percent cited their own health problems as a reason for not designating themselves as a potential donor.
Officials with LifeSource, the nonprofit organization that manages organ and tissue donation in the Upper Midwest, said many people tend to rule themselves out based on misconceptions.
"Everybody should consider themselves a potential donor with the ability to save lives, and let the medical professionals at the time of death decide what organs and tissues are healthy enough to be transplanted," said Susan Gunderson, LifeSource CEO.
During April, National Donate Life Month, LifeSource is highlighting the critical shortage of organs and tissues for transplantation. This year efforts are being focused on urging Minnesotans to check the donor box on their license or ID card and share their wishes with their family.
