Respiratory
Key Function in BodyWe use our lungs to breathe. The lungs bring oxygen into the body and get rid of carbon dioxide from the body.
Fun FactIf the lungs were stretched out, they would become the size of half a tennis court!
Percent of Patients waiting for Organ Donations1%
Circulatory
Key Function in BodyThe heart pumps blood throughout the body. This blood carries essential nutrients and oxygen to the body and gets rid of any cellular waste.
Fun FactAbout ⅔ of the heart is found on the left side of the body.
Percent of Patients waiting for Organ Donations3.3%
Urinary
Key Function in BodyThe kidneys act as filters, removing waste and extra water from the blood. This helps keep the proper balance of minerals, water, and salts in the blood. The kidneys also help control blood pressure, make red blood cells, and keep bones healthy and strong. The waste filtered by the kidneys is converted to urine, which we get rid of (excrete) when we go to the bathroom. About one third of blood flowing from the heart is filtered by the kidneys before it enters other body tissues. While humans have two kidneys, we can survive with only one.
Fun FactPeople can live with only one kidney. However, if both kidneys stop working - people can die within a few days.
Percent of Patients waiting for Organ Donations84.5%
Digestive
Key Function in BodyThe liver has many functions. It stores and releases vitamins and carbohydrates into the blood when the body needs them. The liver also removes bacteria from the bloodstream, which helps keep the body healthy. The liver is extremely important and a person can die quickly from a lack of energy and nutrients if the liver stops functioning.
Fun FactThe liver is the second largest organ in the body; only the skin is larger! The liver has regenerative properties and can regrow dead or damaged tissues.
Percent of Patients waiting for Organ Donations11%