Anyone can be an eye donor. Last year more than 42,000 people donated their eyes. Donations occur across races and ethnic groups in similar proportion to their representation in the general population. There is no age limit to eye donation and because of the cornea’s unique avascularity, people with medical conditions that preclude other tissue or organ donation can still donate eyes.

Neither cataracts, poor eyesight nor age prohibit a person from becoming an eye donor. Most forms of cancer do not preclude use of donor corneas for transplantation. Similarly, previous eye surgery or diseases of the eye do not automatically disqualify donation.

In 2002, 1,262 families donated the eyes of a deceased loved one. Last year donors ranged from infants to senior citizens. The average age of a donor in N.C. is 42.9 years-old.

Source: North Carolina Eye Bank

Prospective donors should indicate their intention on donor cards and driver's licenses. It is important for individuals wanting to be donors to inform family members of their wishes to help ensure that their desires are fulfilled.

Donation is an opportunity to help save a life or restore someone's sight. As such, eye, organ and tissue donation are consistent with beliefs and attitudes of ALL major religions.