FAQ

  • What are the benefits to the Donor?

    - You give the Gift of Life!!!

    - Self-Esteem Grows: The feeling of personal gratification is indescribable. Knowing that you’ve helped give someone a chance at a healthy, productive life is an extraordinary feeling.

  • What impact will donating a kidney have on the Donor’s health and lifestyle?

    - People can live a perfectly normal life with one kidney.

    - The hospital recommends a yearly physical.

    - No special diets or medicines need to be taken after a kidney donation.

  • What if a Donor needs a kidney in the future?

    If a living donor needs a kidney in the future, then they are given Top Priority on the Deceased Donor List.

  • What is involved with the surgery?

    - The surgery is completely paid for by the recipient’s insurance.

    - 2-3 days are spent in the hospital.

    - Donor can apply for FMLA and recovery time averages from 4-6 weeks.

  • In the unfortunate event of a loved one becoming a deceased donor, can that person’s kidney be directed to a friend or family member?

    Yes, a deceased donor’s organs can be directed to a specific recipient.

  • What happens when I scan the Hartford Hospital QR code?

    - By scanning the QR code, it will let you know if you can be a potential candidate, as it asks you question about your health.

    - You are not committed to donating at this point. This is just a way to see if a potential candidate is in good health and able to donate.

    - This hospital will ask you during the journey if you want to donate.

  • What is the difference between the Hartford HealthCare QR code and Tony's QR code?

    - The QR code from Hartford HealthCare directs you to a questionnaire to determine if you are eligible to donate your kidney.

    - The QR code that says “Tony Gentile” with the orange and red kidney heart takes you to our website.

  • Does the Gentile Family see if I complete the Hartford Hospital questionnaire?

    No, Tony and Raffie will not know that you completed the questionnaire until the final leg of the process when you are accepted as a donor. For this reason, filling out the form on this website will help them better gauge the amount of interested candidates.

  • How else can I help?

    If you are personally unable to donate an organ, but still want to help, please consider sharing this information to anyone and everyone.