A new program launched this week puts an end to the little pink
dot on a driver’s license designating someone as a organ donor, and
installs a statewide program intended to save more lives.
Hollister – A new program launched this week puts an end to the little pink dot on a driver’s license designating someone as a organ donor, and installs a statewide program intended to save more lives.
Donate Life California marks the first program in the state’s history allowing residents to register online to become an organ donor – giving people a more efficient and now legally binding avenue to make their feelings known about being organ donors, according to Sheriff Curtis Hill.
The pink dot system of designating an organ donor was inefficient because the sticker could easily fall off a driver’s license and often times people failed to consult with their family members about their decision, Hill said.
Donate Life’s registration takes about five minutes to complete online and ties back to the Department of Motor Vehicles, he said.
“People would be surprised. We’ve got folks in this county waiting for organs who have debilitating health issues,” Hill said. “We’ve had individuals who have died and donated this year. You never here about those things but it’s out there.”
For residents without computer or Internet access, the local YMCA has offered to provide computers for people to register, Hill said.
To register, log onto www.donateLIFEcalifornia.org or in Spanish at www.doneVIDAcalifornia.org. To utilize the YMCA’s computer facilities, visit the office at 339 Fifth St. in Hollister or call 637-8600.
Erin Musgrave covers public safety for the Free Lance. Reach her at 637-5566, ext. 336 or em*******@fr***********.com
