The decision to donate specific body organs,  or your entire body, if very personal.  If you do decide to donate any of you organs, it's best to have it in writing so those making your health care decisions know your wishes.

May I use the Health Care Proxy form to express my wishes about organ and/or tissue donation?
Yes. Use the optional organ and tissue donation section on the Health Care Proxy form (Health Care Proxy Form Download) and be sure to have the section witnessed by two people. You may specify that your organs and/or tissues be used for transplantation, research or educational purposes. Any limitation(s) associated with your wishes should be noted in this section of the proxy. Failure to include your wishes and instructions on your Health Care Proxy form will not be taken to mean that you do not want to be an organ and/ or tissue donor.

Can my health care agent make decisions for me about organ and/or tissue donation?
No. The power of a health care agent to make health care decisions on your behalf ends upon your death. Noting your wishes on your Health Care Proxy form allows you to clearly state your wishes about organ and tissue donation.

Who can consent to a donation if I choose not to state my wishes at this time?
It is important to note your wishes about organ and/or tissue donation so that family members who will be approached about donation are aware of your wishes. However, New York Law provides a list of individuals who are authorized to consent to organ and/or tissue donation on your behalf. They are listed in order of priority: your spouse, a son or daughter 18 years of age or older, either of your parents, a brother or sister 18 years of age or older, a guardian appointed by a court prior to the donor's death, or any other legally authorized person.