As the mother of an organ donor and a professional who has practiced in the field for many years, I was encouraged to read Judy Morse's description of taking part in her first organ recovery ("Promises to Keep," Reflections, July). It's a thoughtful, compassionate piece and illustrates the importance of being present for a patient and family in death.

I would, however, suggest that in the future the word "harvest" not be used in articles about donation. The National Donor Family Council has worked diligently over the past several years to make the language used about donation and transplantation acceptable to donor families.

Nor do I believe it was too late for the author to "reassure Lynne's family" that she would "take excellent care of her"; I would have loved it if the surgical team had come out to meet my family and said those very words before they took my daughter for the recovery of her organs and tissues. Do not underestimate the effect this act of compassion might have on a donor family.

Maggie Coolican, MS, RN, CT

West Lane, CT

Section Description

AJNwelcomes letters to the editor regarding recently published articles, although critiques of original research may be submitted at any time. Submissions must be typed, contain fewer than 300 words, and list the correspondent's name, address, and phone number or e-mail address; include no more than three references for any statistics or studies cited. Letters will be edited for length, clarity, and accuracy. Submission of a letter will constitute the author's permission to publish it, although it doesn't guarantee publication. Letters become the property of AJN and may be published in all media. Send letters to AJN, Lippincott Williams & Wilkins 333 Seventh Avenue, 19th Floor New York, NY 10001 [email protected] (212) 886-1206 (fax)