Correspondence

The Minnesota Lions Eye Bank acts as the intermediary between donor families and corneal recipients and always strives
to serve the needs of both parties to the best of our abilities.

As a donor family member, you may at some point wish to write a note to the recipients of your loved one's corneas. There is no time limit for such correspondence, and you have no obligation to write. The choice is your personal decision.

The eye bank has a responsibility to facilitate the communication process, but it is our policy to share no information that breaches the privacy rights of a donor, a donor's family, or a patient. Your card or letter will be reviewed to ensure confidentiality.

If you do decide to write a letter, we offer these guidelines:

  • Include information you feel comfortable sharing about your loved one, such as occupation or hobbies and ways your loved one was special to you.
  • Use simple language and communicate in a sensitive manner.
  • Do not include any last names, your address, or your phone number.
  • Place the card or letter in an unsealed envelope.
  • Include a cover sheet with your name, address, and the full name of your donor.
  • Mail the materials to:
    Jodie Altenhofen

    Minnesota Lions Eye Bank
    Suite 260
    1000 Westgate Drive
    Saint Paul, MN 55114

Please keep in mind that the correspondence process takes time, and some people are not able to respond right away.