Spread the Word

The Eye Bank of Canada (Ontario Division) is raising awareness about the importance of eye and tissue donation this November. Tissue availability is one of the factors that can slow down the process of transplantation. Let’s change that. Registering as an organ donor is simple, easy and makes a big difference. It only takes a few minutes to register to become a donor and have an immense impact on someone’s life. Close to 400,000 of the 4.1 million registered donors in Ontario exclude their eyes in their consent for donation, which is the most common exclusion among all eligible organs and tissues that can be donated. Part of why we think people exclude eye tissue is because of the many myths regarding eye donation. Here are some facts about eye donation: Even if you have glasses, poor vision, are blind, or suffer from cataracts or glaucoma, you can still register to be a donor; almost anyone with cancer (except those with certain blood or eye cancers) can donate their corneas; anyone can be a potential donor regardless of age or medical history; when it comes to corneal tissue, your blood type does not have to match. Register today and give the gift of sight!