[quote author=TinkerBelly link=topic=20617.msg1316223#msg1316223 date=1246042212]
Ultimately it depends on how long certain organs went without oxygen. This boy is considered brain dead but his organs have continued to receive oxygen by the vent. To be considered viable for transplantation the organs would have to be removed before the ventilator is discontinued.
[/quote]
Yup... and donating organs to science DOES help many people and DOES save lives... it's just that the saving happens later after the doctors have done their studies. I have planned to donate my organs for transplant, and then anything they can't use I want to donate to science. My Mom has a hard time understanding that, I'm still trying to explain that my body isn't "me."
It's really awesome that his tragedy might help another family out there.
I hope this guy gets tortured to death in prison... slowly.
Rest in Peace, Nathanial.