Share the light
Saying thank-you
The decision to write to your donor’s family is one that is deeply personal and follows no expected timeline. Many transplant recipients choose to reach out to their donor’s family to express their gratitude for making the heroic decision to save lies. Many recipients find that sharing their story with their donor’s family gives them a better understanding of the gift they received and helps them along their healing journey. Donor families are often genuinely interested in learning about their loved one’s recipients and learning more about the impact of their decision to donate life. After all, donation is often the silver lining in these families’ loss. Many donor families have shared that communicating with the recipients of their loved ones’ gifts has given them an even deeper understanding of the impact of their decision to save lives. We suggest that you please follow the guidelines below.
All correspondence is completely anonymous and identities are kept confidential unless both parties agree to reveal their identifying information.
Writing guidelines
Step One: Greeting
The donor name is confidential. please use the greeting “Dear donor family,”
Step Two: Body of Letter
We suggest to begin by expressing condolences on the death of their loved one and your gratitude for the gift of sight. Explain how a transplant changes your life ad hobbies you can now enjoy.
Step Three: Close
Sign your first name only. Please do not reveal your address, phone number email address or name of the physician.
Step Four: Send Letter
Please complete the enclosed postcard and place your card in an unsealed envelope. Place these items and the completed postcard into the envelope provided.
Sample letter
Along with the guidelines above, use the following editable form as a template to help craft a “thank you” message of your own. Feel free to go off script and speak from the heart, but this is a great place to start.
Mailing address
If you choose to write your “thank you” in the form of a card or letter, print out the form below and place both in an envelope addressed to:
Sierra Donor Services Eye Bank
3940 Industrial Blvd.
West Sacramento, CA 95691
Frequently asked questions
ALYSSA
Mother of Organ Recipient and the Director of Marketing and Development
Inspiring stories
If you’re unsure if you want to Share the Light, take it from those who have traveled this path before. Their insights may just give you the hope you need.
