Donation is not one single choice. In Florida, people usually mean one of three paths. Gay and lesbian donors can use these paths the same as anyone else — orientation alone does not lock you out.

1. Organs for transplant

This is the path most people think of: heart, lungs, liver, kidneys, and other organs that can save a life. Florida organ-recovery groups work with hospitals after death. You can register for this even if you are gay or lesbian.

2. Tissue and eyes

Tissue donation can include corneas, skin, bone, and similar gifts. These follow federal safety rules that can be tighter than organ rules. Screening may ask about certain risk factors. That is medical screening — not a rule that says gay or lesbian people cannot donate. If tissue donation matters a lot to you, ask the recovering bank what questions they use today. Rules in this area have been updating.

3. Whole-body donation for teaching

This is different. You donate your whole body so medical students and health programs can learn. In Florida, the Anatomical Board of the State of Florida runs this. After the studies (often up to about two years), the body is cremated. Ashes can often be returned to the family.

The Board looks at things like serious infectious disease or major trauma. It does not reject you because you are gay or lesbian.

What about ashes (cremains)?

Once a body is cremated, organs and tissue cannot be taken for transplant. If you want transplant donation, that has to happen before cremation. Ashes themselves are not used as transplant organs.

You usually cannot do everything

Full organ transplant donation and full whole-body donation often conflict. Decide which goal comes first. Write it down. Tell your family.

Questions? Call (954) 563-9160. General information only — not legal advice for your case.

This is post 2 of 4 in our Florida donation series. Next: simple steps to say yes. Related: Yes  gay and lesbian people can donate organs and tissue in Florida.

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