Download a sample letter
In the weeks to come, we would welcome hearing how this transplant surgery has affected your life. If you're interested in sharing your story or would like to volunteer your time, please contact the Family Services Coordinator at 206.682.8500 x 125 or toll-free at 1.800.847.5786.
Writing to Donor Families
Donor family members often tell SightLife that they find much comfort in knowing their loved one's donation has improved others' lives. They also enjoy learning about those who received their loved one's corneas. If you are a cornea recipient or the parent of a child who received a cornea, we encourage you to write to your donor family through us at SightLife. We realize that the decision to write is a very personal one. Click here to read a donor family letter. Below are some helpful suggestions to keep in mind if you choose to do so.
- Keep identities anonymous and confidential by using first names only. Avoid including street addresses, phone numbers, e-mails, city names, or names of hospitals and physicians.
- Write about yourself. Include information about your family, friends, occupation, hobbies and interests, and the state (not city) in which you live.
- Write about your transplant experience. You may want to include why your transplant was necessary and how it improved your quality of life.
- You may want to acknowledge the donor family and thank them for their gift.
- Since the religion of the donor family is unknown, please consider this if you are including religious comments.
- Sign your first name only.
- Place your letter in an unsealed envelope. Include on a separate sheet of paper your full name, the date of your transplant, and the name of your cornea transplant physician. Send to:
SightLife
Attention: Family Services Coordinator
901 Boren Avenue, Suite 810
Seattle, WA 98104
Keep in mind...
Although most donor families welcome correspondence from recipients, they are coping with the loss of their loved one and are still in the grieving process. Please communicate in a sensitive manner. Some donor families may respond right away while others may choose not to write at this time. The Family Services Coordinator will review all letters to ensure confidentiality and then forward them to the donor family. Sometimes families move out of the area and cannot be reached. If this happens, you will be notified. Please allow extra time in the event your correspondence is time sensitive.