This past week, hundreds of transplant recipients gathered in Philadelphia for what can only be described as the Olympics of Second Chances. The Transplant Games brought together men, women, and children who received life-saving organ transplants. They competed in swimming, track and field, basketball, golf, and many other events.

Think about that for a moment. Many of these athletes were once critically ill. Some depended on machines or oxygen tanks. Others were too sick to walk across a room. Many were told they might not survive without a transplant. Yet today they are running, swimming, laughing, competing, and truly living.

As a cardiac surgeon, I’ve spent my career fighting to save lives. I’ve cared for patients with advanced heart disease, and I’ve had the privilege of seeing firsthand what organ transplantation can accomplish.

The Transplant Games remind us of something very important. Organ donation is not about death. It’s about life. Unfortunately, many myths still surround organ donation. One common misconception is that if you’re registered as an organ donor, doctors won’t work as hard to save your life. Nothing could be further from the truth. When you arrive at a hospital, your healthcare team’s only mission is to save your life. Organ donation is considered only after every possible lifesaving effort has been exhausted and strict medical and legal criteria have been met.

Another myth is that you’re too old to donate. The truth is there is no age limit. What matters most is the health of your organs, not your age. Others worry that religion prohibits organ donation, but most major religions view it as one of the highest acts of compassion and generosity. Many people also assume that existing medical conditions automatically prevent donation. In reality, every potential donor is evaluated individually, and many people with medical conditions can still save lives.