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Free OptInk tattoo serves as a person's inked intent to donate their organs

In Germany, 84% of people support organ donation, yet just 0.001% actually become organ donors. This disparity led to the creation of OptInk  by Junge Helden with McCann. The concept is simple: a distinctive, free tattoo signals an individual's desire to have their organs and tissues donated after death. 

German legislation currently mandates express consent for organ donation, typically through a donor card, advance healthcare directive or other written declaration while the person is alive. Without explicit prior consent, the decision falls to the donor's relatives, resulting in fewer organ donations than are needed. OptInk tackles this issue by offering a visible symbol of one's intent to donate.

Since participating tattoo shops apply OptInk free of charge, the symbol was crafted to be quick and easy for them to ink. Comprising two connected semicircles and a full circle, the geometric design represents organ donation as a perpetuation of life while forming the letters 'O' and 'D' for 'organ donor.'

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Although OptInk tattoos don't hold legal recognition, they clearly signify an individual's intent to donate their organs and tissues. As OptInk gains momentum, Junge Helden is collaborating with the medical community to enhance recognition and acceptance.

The tattoo's most significant role might be fostering open dialogue with family members and serving as a reminder of someone's decision. Given that a quarter of the German population already has tattoos, the barrier to getting another may be low enough to substantially boost organ donor rates across the nation.