Supporters argue that Internet organ matching is already saving lives and has the potential to save thousands more by dramatically improving the odds of finding a donor. Rejecting the long-standing system based primarily on anonymous donations, proponents say the approach could motivate far more people to come forward by letting them get to know the person who will get their organ.

"We're touching people with personal stories, which is so much more effective than reading statistics or just donating anonymously," said Irma Woodard, who runs LinksForLifeCampaign.com from Albany, N.Y. "We're drawing a lot of people to donate who wouldn't otherwise. We're saving lives." Washington Post