I'm turning 18
If you have turned 18, you can make important choices yourself. One of these is the choice whether or not you want to donate your organs and tissues after your passing. This is something you might prefer not to think about right now. Because when you're 18, death is still so far away. Nevertheless, it is important to record your own choice in the Donor Register.
Why make a choice?
By recording a choice your parents and the people who are important to you will know how you think about donation. Discuss this with them as well. This makes the discussion with the physician at the hospital easier for your family.
Letter from the Donor Register
Everyone in the Netherlands who has turned 18 and has not recorded a choice yet will receive a letter. In this letter we ask you to record a choice.
- If you do not record a choice after the first letter, you will receive a second letter so you don’t forget to make a choice.
- If you do not record a choice again, 'No objection to organ donation' will appear next to your name. You will receive another letter about this.
Which choices do I have?
You have four choices. You can only choose one. Whatever choice you record, you can always change your choice.
- Yes, I want to become a donor
- No, I don't want to become a donor
- My partner or family decides
- I appoint someone who decides
Read more about the choices you have.
What does ‘no objection to organ donation’ mean?
‘No objection to organ donation’ means that your organs can go to a patient after your passing. The physician at the hospital will discuss this with your family. If your family is very sure and can explain to the physician that you really did not want to become a donor, then you will not become a donor. So it is important that your family knows what your choice is. And for you to record that choice.