Lexington, Kentucky, January 20, 2026
In a remarkable development, Kentucky’s organ donor registry saw over 75,000 residents signing up, contributing over $1.7 million to assist transplant patients. This vital increase comes as over 1,000 Kentuckians await life-saving transplants. UK HealthCare has enhanced registration methods through the MyChart patient portal, while the Donate Life Kentucky Trust provided significant support to families navigating pre- and post-transplant challenges. Looking ahead, the Trust aims to improve access to information about organ donation and continue its education initiatives.
Lexington, Kentucky
Record Growth in Kentucky’s Organ Donor Registry in 2025
In 2025, Kentucky’s organ donor registry witnessed a historic increase, with over 75,000 residents signing up and more than $1.7 million raised to support transplant patients and their families. This surge is particularly crucial as over 1,000 Kentuckians are currently in need of life-saving transplants.
Enhanced Registration Methods and Community Support
To accommodate this increase, UK HealthCare launched a new function in its MyChart patient portal, enabling adults to register as organ, eye, and tissue donors via their mobile devices or computers. This initiative aims to simplify the registration process and promote more individuals to become donors.
Moreover, the Donate Life Kentucky Trust provided direct assistance to over 100 families facing pre- and post-transplant challenges. Support services included gas and grocery cards, rent and utility assistance, as well as medication and co-pay help. The trust also awarded over $20,000 in scholarships to Kentucky students who expressed their support for organ donation through creative means.
Looking Ahead
For 2026, the Donate Life Kentucky Trust plans to enhance accessibility to accurate information about organ donation, which will be available 24/7 through its website and text messaging services. The organization aims to continue expanding education initiatives, strengthening community partnerships, honoring donors, and providing support for families throughout Kentucky.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the Kentucky organ donor registry?
The Kentucky organ donor registry is a statewide electronic registry that ensures your desire to be an organ, tissue, and cornea donor is honored after death, as long as donation is clinically possible.
How can I register as an organ donor in Kentucky?
You can register as an organ donor in Kentucky online at RegisterMeKY.org or in person at your local Kentucky DMV office when receiving or renewing your driver’s license or state ID card.
How can I update or remove my name from the Kentucky organ donor registry?
To update or remove your registration, visit RegisterMeKY.org, click “Change Registration,” and log in using your driver’s license number and zip code. Once in your record, you can edit your information or select “Not a Donor” to remove your name.
What support does Donate Life Kentucky Trust provide to transplant patients and their families?
Donate Life Kentucky Trust offers support programs that provide direct assistance to families with pre- and post-transplant needs, including gas and grocery cards, rent and utility assistance, and medication and co-pay support.
How can I contact Donate Life Kentucky Trust for more information?
You can contact Donate Life Kentucky Trust by email at [email protected] or by phone at 1-502-694-3015 during business hours.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Record Growth | Over 75,000 new registrations in 2025, with more than 1,000 Kentuckians awaiting life-saving transplants. |
| Enhanced Registration Methods | Introduction of a new feature within UK HealthCare’s MyChart patient portal for easy online registration. |
| Community Support | Over $1.7 million raised to support transplant patients and their families, including direct assistance programs and scholarships. |
| Future Plans | Provide 24/7 access to accurate information about organ donation through the website and text messaging services in 2026. |
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