How should I start the letter?
Start by addressing your message to the recipient. This can be specific or general, examples are below.
-To my mother’s heart recipient
-Dear lung recipient
-Dear recipient
What should I say?
What you include is up to you, and your message can be brief. A recipient knows very little about their donor. Sharing your loved one’s first name, and your relationship to them can be meaningful to the recipient. Recipients are often interested to know what their donor was like, what their occupation was, and what hobbies they enjoyed. You can also share if you have thought of the recipient, share sentiments of continued heath, and express an interest in hearing from them or communicating directly. Examples of possible statements to include are below.
-My name is Samantha, and you received my brother Charlie’s heart. My brother would be pleased to know that he helped you.
-My mother, Maya, was a wonderful woman. She enjoyed being outdoors and her favorite food was chocolate chip cookies.
-I hope my daughter’s gift has made a difference in your life and I wish you continued health.
-I would love to one day meet you, to learn more about you, and to tell you more about the person that my husband was.
-It would it would be an incredible gift to hear from you, even once. Would you please consider sending a response?
Is there anything I should avoiding saying?
We ask that you not include identifying information like last names, email address, phone number, and where you live. While it is possible to exchange this information with recipients, you both must consent to share this information. Sharing this information cannot be undone. We encourage you to get to know the recipient anonymously so you can decide if this is a relationship you would like to foster.
How should I close the letter?
In closing your letter, you can sign your first name, note your relationship to your loved one, or simply as “Your Donor’s Family.”
-Jane
-Your Donor’s Wife
-Your Donor’s Family