Pennsylvania Woman Makes History as Oldest Organ Donor

A woman from Pennsylvania recently passed away at 97, earning the title of the state’s oldest organ donor and ranking as the third oldest in the U.S.

Peggy Fields chose to become an organ donor later in her life, making history by donating her liver following the death of a woman in Florida.

Fields was known as a “lifelong volunteer,” dedicating much of her time to churches, communities, and historical societies in the Pittsburgh area. Her daughter, Linda Kirk, shared with local media that Fields also served as a Girl Scout leader.

“She was always giving back, and I think this was her final act of generosity,” Kirk remarked. “I’m really proud of her.”

“This is something everyone should recognize: You don’t have to be young to make a difference. Even at 97, you can still contribute to someone in need,” Kirk added.

The Center for Organ Recovery and Education emphasized that Fields’ decision dispels the myth that age disqualifies someone from being an organ donor.

Caitlin Metz from CORE explained, “While the oldest donor is currently a 100-year-old in Nebraska, Peggy proudly holds the title for Pennsylvania’s oldest donor and the oldest female donor overall.” She added that many people want their final act to be a gift to others.

In the U.S., anyone, regardless of age, can become an organ donor. Medical professionals assess organ viability at the time of death, as noted by the Health Resources and Services Administration.

Statistics from the National Institute on Aging reveal that in 2021, one-third of organ donors were over the age of 50.