The uses of organs, eyes and tissues is separated into three categories: transplantation, research and education.

Transplantable organs include the heart, liver, pancreas, bowel, kidney and lung.

Transplantable tissues include bone, fascia (the skin-like material that wraps around many muscles), pericardium (the sac surrounding the heart), tendons, skin, heart valves, arteries, veins, skin and corneas.

Almost every other part of the body is desparately needed for research and educational purposes.  Scientists hoping to cure Alzheimer's need research specimens taken from the brain.  Arthritis researchers are seeking samples taken from joints.  Those looking for cures for cancer need specimens taken from cancerous tissues such as lungs or even prostate and the list goes on and on.

The most incredible thing about donation is that even if the individual tissues are not suitable for donation due to age or disease, specimens for research and education are always needed.

Organs and tissues donated for research and education are perhaps the most valuable - instead of only saving one life the have the opportunity to help save the lives of millions in generations to come.