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A simple conversation to save lives
This week is Organ Donation Awareness Week (21-28 February 2009) and Hunter New England Health is encouraging members of the community to talk to their families about organ donation.
Organ and Tissue Coordinator at Hunter New England Health Nicole Coleman said it is important that people take the time to let their family know their wishes about organ donation.
“Generally, when people are aware of their loved one’s wishes in relation to organ donation then they usually want to carry out their wish,” Ms Coleman said.
“However it is much harder for the family to make the decision to donate their loved one’s organs when they aren’t sure what their wishes were. Obviously it is a very difficult time for the family but it can be a little bit easier if they have talked about organ donation and they feel confident in their decision to donate.
“Taking a few minutes to talk to your family can be a life-saving conversation because one organ donor has the potential to save up to eight lives,” Ms Coleman said.
Ms Coleman said that sometimes people do not let their family know their wishes because they are undecided about organ donation. This can often be because they don’t have a clear understanding about the process of organ donation.
“There are resources available to help people make an informed decision about organ donation,” Ms Coleman said.
“One great resource is a brochure available at all RTA Motor Registry Offices called “Organ Donors Save Lives’ which contains information about when organ donation is possible, what happens during organ retrieval, where you can get answers to your questions and how to register to become an organ donor.
“Your family doctor can also answer any questions you may have to help you better understand organ donation,” Ms Coleman said.
Once you have talked to your family about your decision it is also important to register your wishes about organ donation.
To register you can sign on to the national organ donor register by calling 1800 777 203, collect a registration form from a Medicare office, or visit www.organdonor.com.au for more information and direct links to the organ donor register. If you are a driver, you can also record your decision with NSW RTA.
Nicole Coleman will be at
Media
Contact: Sharna McCarthy
Phone: 02 4921 4501
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