How Organ Transplant Recipients Cope with the Deaths of Their Donors

Abstract

There has been limited research about how people who have received organ transplants from deceased donors cope with their donors’ deaths. A study was conducted with 77 anonymous recipients to determine how their coping methods may differ qualitatively or quantitatively. Results indicate that females and males use a variety of methods, with several differences noted in their levels of importance, frequency of use, and impact. Some differences, based on age, were also noted. Four overarching themes were identified in the coping process, including: resolving whether the donor “died for” the individual, the random chance nature of receiving an organ acting as an emotional defense, thanks/faith in God being beneficial, and gratitude toward the donor and their family.