Legacy Donor Services Foundation partners with local hospitals, medical examiners, eye banks and other recovery agencies serving the state of Florida to receive donation referrals. Referral calls are made to a central donation line where an initial interview takes place to determine the eligibility of a potential donor. When a referral is made, a donor family advocate will follow up with the referring facility to determine if donation options can be offered to the next of kin.
We approach each referral family with respect, providing them with information to help make an informed decision. We intend to support the family’s decision, regardless of whether or not they choose to consent to donation. Families are provided with answers to all their questions and enough time to think over their options. If the referral was not a registered donor, the next of kin has permission to sign or record a consent document. Consent documents must include the specific organs and tissues the family wishes to donate, a statement regarding the intended use for the donation (transplantation, education or research) and any information regarding infection and disease.
Donors are initially selected based on information available at the time of death. This can include medical records, discussions with medical staff or interviewing the next of kin using a standardized screening form, though an interview may be performed at a later time if the family is unable to do so at the time of donation.
Trained donor family advocates are available around the clock, 365 days a year, to answer any questions you may have about the donation process. Call their toll-free number at (1-800-255-GIVE).