Are You An Organ Donor?

Organ donation is truly one of the most selfless acts you can undertake. While it is an uncomfortable discussion to have, it is a vital one to have with family. Some people do have beliefs that preclude them from donating organs, but for anyone who is prepared to, the joy and hope you are able to give another person and their family is priceless.

Latest figures show organ donation and transplantation increased in New Zealand in 2014. Last year 175 people received an organ transplant, enabling them to live better and more productive lives.

Having the discussion in a non-stress environment allows all parties to make a rational and informed decision.  Sadly, many families have to decide whether or not to donate organs after the shock of an accident, and it can be too much to process. For some, it can feel like one decision too many to have to make. For those on a waiting list, it is the most welcome news they could receive.       

Organ Donation New Zealand (ODNZ) Clinical Director, Dr Stephen Streat said, “We would like to sincerely thank the families who generously agreed to organ and tissue donation in 2014 and thereby provided recipients and their families with the benefits of organ and tissue transplantation.

“ODNZ also thanks doctors, nurses and other health professionals in intensive care units and operating rooms at donor hospitals for their commitment to donation.”

There has also been an increase in kidney donation from live donors, from an average of 56 per year over the last decade to 72 in 2014.

The National Renal Transplantation Service’s Clinical Director, Dr Nick Cross said, “The increase in live kidney donation in 2014 alongside the increase in deceased kidney donation is tremendous news.

“Along with the commitment and generosity of the donors and their families, this reflects the work of a diverse and extremely dedicated group of health professionals in referrals and transplantation, and the strong support of DHBs and the Ministry of Health to live kidney donation and transplantation.

“In New Zealand, there were 138 kidney transplants performed in 2014, more than ever before.”

There is information available on the ODNZ website. Next time your renew your drivers license, make sure you tick the donor option – it makes it clear for medical personnel and relieves your family from the burden of having to make a decision on your behalf.