Donor families often appreciate hearing from the transplant patients who received their loved ones’ donated corneal tissue. The Eye-Bank acts as an intermediary between donor families and cornea transplant recipients wishing to communicate with each other. In order to protect individuals' privacy, we are required to maintain anonymity when forwarding letters or cards unless both parties sign a confidentiality waiver that allows identities to be revealed.   

When we receive correspondence from a recipient intended for a donor family, we review the document to ensure confidentiality, and then attempt to contact the donor family. If successful, we ask the family if they would like to receive the correspondence, and forward it only with their permission. In the event that we are unable to contact the family or if they are not currently interested in receiving correspondence from the transplant recipient, the letter is filed in the event that they later contact us.   

Guidelines for Writing to a Donor Family 

• Anytime is a good time to write. Whether it has been weeks or months since  your transplant. Many donor families are eager to hear from transplant recipients.

• Using only first names, tell them something special or unique about yourself in a letter or a “Thinking of You” card.

• You may want to write about how their gift made a difference in your life.

• Be sensitive regarding religious comments and views, since the family's religion is unknown. 

• Please sign only your first name. Do not use last names, street addresses, city names, e-mail addresses, telephone numbers, or names of hospitals or physicians.

• Place your letter or card in an unsealed envelope.

• Along with your request to mail the communication to the recipient, please include a separate note for the Eye-Bank that includes your name, address, and date of surgery. This will help us locate the correct donor family member.

• Mail both pieces in one envelope to the Eye-Bank. Click here for mailing address information.