Key Takeaways:
- Approximately 1,630 people died in Australian hospitals in circumstances where organ donation could have been possible last year, but only 53% of families agreed to donate.
- One organ donor can save up to seven people, and around 1,800 Australians are waiting for a life-saving organ transplant.
- Becoming an organ donor requires a conversation with loved ones, as families are often unsure of their loved one’s wishes.
- Anyone aged 16 or older can register as an organ and tissue donor on the Australian Organ Donor Register, regardless of age, lifestyle, or health.
- Registering as an organ donor is easy and only takes a few minutes, and can be done through the myGov app or at donatelife.gov.au.
Introduction to Organ Donation
The decision to become an organ donor can be a life-saving one, with the potential to save up to seven people. However, despite the importance of organ donation, many families are unsure of their loved one’s wishes, leading to a significant barrier in the organ donation process. In Australia, around 1,630 people died in hospitals in circumstances where organ donation could have been possible last year, but only 53% of families agreed to donate. This gap matters, as one organ donor can save multiple lives and improve the health and wellbeing of many others.
The Impact of Organ Donation
Organ donation can have a profound impact on the lives of individuals and families. For example, Lisa, a service officer, made the courageous decision to donate her daughter Harper’s organs after she passed away at the age of five. Harper’s donations saved three people, and Lisa takes comfort in knowing that her daughter’s legacy lives on. Similarly, Karen Beckett, another Services Australia staff member, donated a kidney to her cousin, giving her the gift of life. These selfless acts demonstrate the importance of organ donation and the difference it can make in the lives of others.
The Importance of Conversation
Becoming an organ donor requires more than just ticking a box; it requires having a conversation with loved ones. Families are often unsure of their loved one’s wishes, and without clear instructions, they may say no to donation. It is essential to discuss organ donation with family members, so they understand your wishes and can make an informed decision if the time comes. This conversation can be started at any time, such as during the Christmas family lunch, and can be facilitated by reading up on donation at donatelife.gov.au and busting common myths.
Who Can Donate
In Australia, anyone aged 16 or older can register as an organ and tissue donor on the Australian Organ Donor Register, regardless of age, lifestyle, or health. Most Australians support organ donation, but only 7.9 million have registered, a number that should be closer to 16 million. Registering is easy and only takes a few minutes, and can be done through the myGov app or at donatelife.gov.au.
How to Become an Organ Donor
Registering as an organ donor is a simple process that can be completed in a few minutes. Individuals can register through their Medicare online account, the myGov app, or at donatelife.gov.au. Once registered, a digital organ donor card can be added to the myGov app wallet, and donation preferences can be updated at any time. DonateLife, the Australian Government’s national program, provides information on how donation works, who will be helped by donation, and stories from donor families and transplant recipients.
Conclusion
Organ donation is a selfless act that can save lives and improve the health and wellbeing of many others. By becoming an organ donor and having a conversation with loved ones, individuals can make a significant difference. With around 1,800 Australians waiting for a life-saving organ transplant, it is essential to register as an organ donor and discuss donation with family members. By doing so, we can increase the number of organ donations and give more people the gift of life.