that other holiday

[desh]

Of course, today's not only Pitchers And Catchers Report Day for much of Major League Baseball. Today's also National Donor Day! There's still a huge shortage of donated organs worldwide, and no matter your age, I strongly encourage you to think about this, and to be an organ donor. You don't even have to fill out a form (though that helps too); all that matters is that your loved ones know your wishes. If you do want a form, though, here's one.

If you are an organ donor, please sound off here:

[Poll #1138384]

If you're not an organ donor, I'm not going to call you out in a poll, but please, if you're willing, post a comment about your decision so we can have a discussion about it. I feel quite strongly about this, and I'm curious about your opinion too.

Comments

[complexated.livejournal.com]

I am an organ donor, but I was wondering about your feelings about the Jewish traditions regarding bodies after death and how that fits in with being an organ donor. My personal belief is that if it can save a life then it is proper within the confines of Judaism.

[desh]

I agree with you. My only question about Jewish law's perspective on organ donation isn't wither it's permitted, but whether it's required. Jewish law permits breaking nearly any aspect of Jewish law in order to save a life.

I'm going to try to find some sources.

[desh]

The Halachic Organ Donation Society does a good job of addressing some of the common issues that are raised along these lines.