Halachic Organ Donor Society

Dear Rabbi Dr. Mordechai Halperin,

Hi, my name is ***, and I am a college student who freelances for the Jewish Press. Currently, I'm working on an article about the Halachic Organ Donor Society. I recently interviewed Robby Berman, the director of HODS, and he mentioned you were speaking at the upcoming medical conference at Einstein Medical School. I was hoping might answer a few questions so I may quote you in my article. I know you must be busy, but I would greatly appreciate it. Why are Jews so fearful of donating their organs? Why do you think this issue hasn't been truly discussed until recently? What is The Schlesinger Institute doing to aid in dispelling the myths of organ donation and halacha? Additionally, what do you hope to accomplish by speaking at this upcoming conference?

Again, I know you must be busy, so any quotes and information you can send me would be much appreciated. Thanks,