What is corneal blindness?
Cornea, the main focussing part of the eye, is the clear front surface of the eye. Like a “window”, it allows light to enter the eye. Vision could be markedly reduced or lost if the cornea becomes “cloudy” or scarred. This condition is known as corneal blindness.

What are the causes of corneal blindness?
Injuries to the eye, birth defects, malnutrition, infections, chemical burns, congenital disorders and complications of eye surgery.

Are there any religious conflicts in eye donation?
There are no religious conflicts on eye donation. Eye donation gives a gift of life or sight to others. As such, it is consistent with beliefs and attitudes of all major religious and ethical traditions.

Will eye donation cause delays in funeral arrangement?
No, Eye removal is performed within half an hour after death and leaves no disfiguring, that would interfere with common funeral practices.

Is the whole eye of the donor transplanted?
No, only the cornea is transplanted. However, the rest of the eye is used for research and education purposes.

Can a person who is blind due to retinal or optic nerve disease donate his eyes?
Yes, provided the cornea of the donor is clear.

Can a living person donate his eyes?
No, donation from living persons is not accepted.

Will the recipient be informed of the donor’s details?
No, the gift of sight is made anonymously.

Is the whole eye transplanted?
No, only the cornea (clear, front part of the eye) is used for corneal transplants. The sclera (white part) can sometimes be used for sight-saving surgery. The rest of the eye can be used for research (if you wish) to aid in future treatment of eye disease.

Will we be able to have an open-casket funeral?
Yes. No one will know there has been an eye donation unless you tell them. Very rarely there may be a bit of swelling, but otherwise there should be no visible signs following donation.

 Is the family told who will receive the eyes?

No. A letter of appreciation is sent to the family. The actual identities of the donor and recipients are kept confidential under present laws. However, recipients and donor families can communicate with each other anonymously through the Eye Bank. Contact the Eye Bank for more details.

 Can all blind people benefit from a corneal transplant?

No, only those whose eyes have a defective cornea (i.e. opaque, scarred or misshapen cornea).

 Can I designate the recipient of my eyes?

No. There are patients waiting for their sight-saving surgeries. The Eye Bank distributes the corneas in a fair and equitable manner.

 I wear glasses. Can I donate my eyes?

Yes. Even totally blind people can donate their eyes because there is no relationship between poor eyesight and eye donorship.

 I have cancer. Can I donate my eyes?

Yes. Individuals with cancer can still donate their eyes, except for those with cancers such as leukemia, lymphoma or cancers / tumours of the eye itself. [Back to top]

 If I sign a donor card, will the quality of my medical care decrease?

No. Regardless of your decision about organ donation, health care providers who look after you only have your health interests at hand.

 How great is the need for corneas?

In Ontario last year, over 1200 individuals had their sight restored by corneal transplants made possible by eye donations. There is presently a critical shortage - 59 surgeries have had to be cancelled due to lack of available tissue.

 Can children's eyes be used by the Eye Bank?

Yes. If the parents wish to donate the eyes of their children, it can be done. The child, when coming of age, must repledge his or her eyes.

What if I change my mind?

Discard the donor card and let your family know of your decision