Time to open up the discussion on organ donation.
The South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust is supporting National Organ Donation Week starting on 2– 8 September 2019.
This year they are encouraging people not only to sign up to the NHS Organ Donor Register but to also talk about organ donation with their families. Most people support organ donation, but a family’s support is needed, so that organ donation can go ahead.
For many of us, the question of needing or donating an organ isn’t really something we have thought about, but most people would accept an organ if they needed one.
Around 135 people are currently on the transplant waiting list in Northern Ireland and sadly around 12 people die each year waiting for an organ transplant.
It is really important that you share your decision to be an organ donor with your family and friends to make the situation less stressful for them, allowing them to fully understand your choice and give them the confidence to fulfil your wish of being an organ donor.
Dr John McAteer, Clinical Lead for Organ Donation said: “All health professionals have a duty of care and will always strive to save a life. However, if a patient dies despite their best effort, it may become possible to consider organ donation. If you are one of the few people who are suitable for organ donation then you can transform and save up to nine lives.”
Heather Savage, Specialist Nurse for Organ Donation, further added “Organs will only be used if that is your wish so please have that important conversation about your wishes with your family today. You can indicate your wishes in a number of ways such as telling a relative or close friend, by carrying an organ donor card or recording your wishes on the NHS Organ Donor Register.
“Putting your name on the NHS Organ Donor Register makes it easier for the NHS to establish your wishes and for those closest to you in life to follow them.”
The Trust has created a video to raise awareness of the importance of organ donation and this can be viewed on the Trust website.
To sign on the NHS Organ Donor Register visit:
If you would like further information on Organ Donation please contact Heather Savage, Specialist Nurse for Organ Donation on (028) 9041 1470 or email:
