Organ donation: Many don't mind to receive, but won't give

GEORGE NEWS - An informal study in the Western Cape has indicated that many would accept an organ if their lives depended on it, but only a small percentage of people are willing to donate their organs.

"Ninety-odd percent said they would receive an organ, but of that same ninety percent just over twelve percent said they would donate their organs," said guest speaker Anthony Breakey during an information session at George Hospital last Thursday, 1 September.

"The way people feel about organ donation is a very personal matter, but there are many misconceptions around the subject," said Breakey, who is a heart recipient and volunteer for the Organ Donation Foundation (ODF).

He said about half the people on the waiting list will never receive a transplant and will die. There are four to five thousand people desperately waiting for life-saving organ transplants, due to the shortage of organ donors.

He said end stage organ failure knows no gender, race, age or status.

"More people could be saved if more people said 'yes' to consent after a loved one has died. At the time of a loved one's death the family will be approached and asked if they are willing to donate their loved one's organs and tissue. Donation cannot take place unless consent is received from the next of kin."

How can you help?

Register at the Organ Donation Foundation through the website (odf.org.za) or call the toll-free number, 0800 22 66 11. Ask your family and friends to register and remember to ask your family to honour your wish to be a donor at the time of your death.

There is no cost involved in becoming a donor, and no recipient of an organ or tissue ever pays for the product.

One person can help up to 50 people by donating tissue such as corneas, skin, bone, tendons and heart valves. An organ donor can save the lives of up to seven people.

Sr Pearl September, Rudi Nel (ODF), Nico Muller (ODF), Sr Whilma Klein (crucial programme coordinator at George Hospital), Anthony Breakey (guest speaker), Chantel Breakey, Thami Douse (ODF), Sr Franzette Adams and Sr Judy Fourie (ICU manager at George Hospital).