We understand the topic of donation can lead to many questions so we have selected a group of frequently asked questions below. 

Of course, if you have specific questions or need additional information, our Aftercare Services team can be reached at the number below.

  • What is the difference between organ and tissue donation?

    The criteria to be an organ donor is different than being a tissue donor and vice versa. Both types of donation are equally as important and have the ability to impact countless lives. Organ donation often occurs when an individual passes away in a hospital environment and has been placed on a ventilator. Organs are transplanted immediately. The types of gifts that make up organ donation are: heart, liver, kidneys, lungs, pancreas and intestines. The vast majority of donors are tissue donors. Tissue donation is made up of: bone, skin, corneas, veins, nerves and heart valves. 1 in 20 Americans will benefit from tissue transplantation. Most donated tissues are able to be preserved for several years before the gifts are requested by a hospital in need.

  • Why am I receiving routine mailings from New England Donor Services?

    Your family has either made or supported the donation decision. Our Aftercare Program is in place to support you. We want you to know that we remain a resource for you to learn more about your loved one’s donation.

    You can see more information on our one-year routine mailings here. You have the ability to opt out of our program anytime using the contact information below.

  • How do I connect with my loved one's recipients?

    Our Aftercare Services team is here to help facilitate correspondence and possible meetings. All organ donor families have the ability to send a letter or card to a recipient. To learn more about this process, please visit our Connect area.

    Unfortunately, some of our tissue banking partners do not have correspondence programs in place so the process is not as simple for our tissue donor families.

    If you are a tissue donor family member and are interested in learning more about connecting, please contact us using the information below. We would be happy to discuss with you directly.

  • Will I be able to find out more details on my loved one's donation?

    All donor family members can request an update at any time.

    Our Aftercare Services team will immediately work with our transplant and tissue banking partners to get your family more information on your loved one’s donation.

  • Are there any opportunities for me to connect with other donor families?

    New England Donor Services hosts regional Blue & Green walks. Donor families are encouraged to attend, commemorate their loved ones and connect with others in the donation community. We also have an incredible volunteer program where donor families and recipients often are asked to publicly speak and share what donation has meant to them.

    Please visit our volunteer page for more information.

  • I have friends and family members who would like to donate in memory of my loved one. Where can they do that?

    A monetary donation in memory of your loved one is a very special gift. Instructions on this can be found here.

    All charity contributions are used for public education initiatives to promote awareness for organ and tissue donation.

  • I am feeling lost in my grief. Are there any resources available to help me?

    We invite you to review our online grief resources area. These helpful links are organized by type of loss.

    Should you feel these resources are not quite right for you, please reach out to us and we would be happy to get you some other materials.

  • What is the first thing I am supposed to do after experiencing my loss?

    Our staff created a checklist of tasks to help guide you through this challenging time. There are several considerations to prepare you, your family and friends for the funeral arrangements and beyond. It is our hope you find this resource helpful.

  • Who can I contact if I have more questions?

    You can reach us online anytime. Our Aftercare Services department is available Monday – Friday.

    You can also call us at (781) 373-7945 or email ac@neds.org.