In this article we describe the aims of a Swiss cohort study in bereaved relatives who were asked for organ donation. Their experience in the ICU was assessed six months after the donation request by questionnaire (quantitative approach) and, in a subgroup, by interviews (qualitative approach). The difficulties of running such a multitcentre study are reported in detail. A short overview of general findings is given. The unexpected results, namely the impact of our findings on communication skills training in ICU staffs, and the change engendered in the clinical practice of transplantation coordinators in the follow-up of donor families, are described in detail.