How donation can help save lives - The Worcester Observer

How donation can help save lives

Worcester Editorial 29th Sep, 2021   0

PEOPLE across the county are being urged to talk to their families about organ donation.

The latest figures show more than 7,000 people – including 200 children – are in need of an organ transplant across the UK.

Among them are 46 from Worcestershire and the plight of those waiting for a donation is being highlighted in a new song entitled ‘invisible’ by the ‘Harmonies of Hope’ children’s choir.

The challenges of the past 18 months on the NHS has led to waiting lists for organs, including kidney, heart, liver and lungs rising.




NHS Blood and Transplant is calling for more families in Worcestershire to talk and share their organ donation decision to increase the chances of the many children, young people and adults in need of the life-saving treatment.

Last year, 21 people in Worcestershire had their lives saved by a transplant after someone died and donated their organs.


If more people agreed to donate, more lives would be saved in Worcestershire and around the country.

It is hoped the choir’s song will inspire people in Worcestershire to talk about organ donation and for all members of the family, whatever their age, to help make sure more lives are saved.

Anthony Clarkson, Director of Organ and Tissue Donation and Transplantation, at NHS Blood and Transplant, said: “Even though the law surrounding organ donation had changed to an opt-out system, it was still important people made their loved ones aware of their decision.

“Families will still always be consulted before organ donation goes ahead.

“It is just as important as ever to make your organ donation decision known to your family and friends and leave them certain of what you what to happen in the event of your death.”

Last week was Organ Donation Week and Mr Clarkson said he hoped that would also inspire families to talk more and share their decisions.

For more information, or to register an organ donation decision, visit: organdonation.nhs.uk or call 0300 123 23 23.

NHS app users can also use the service to record, check or update their organ donation decision.

 

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