This may seem like an odd post posted at an odd time, but it's not. See, today I learned that Jess Wales, a lady with CF, got a new pair of lungs in the early hours of this morning in a hospital just a few miles from my flat. I do not personally know Jess, but I have been following her story for a while now and hearing this good news has made me excited and thoughtful and fidgety. I am excited for her and all the great things that can now and will hopefully happen for in her the future. I am thoughtful because somewhere a family is mourning the loss of a loved one, a person kind enough to give someone else a chance at life upon losing his or hers. And I am fidgety because I want to do something to help raise awareness - awareness about organ donation, lack thereof and a fantastic charity called Live Life Then Give Life.
You should have a look at their site, but here are a few quick facts for you if you don't have time:
- You are more likely to need a transplant than to become a donor.
- Over 8000 people are currently waiting for a transplant.
- Less than 3000 transplants are carried out each year.
- Last year, over 1000 people died whilst waiting for a transplant.
Jess waited 4 years for a transplant. 4 years. I hope you will take a moment to think about what it must be like to wait for something something as basic as a deep breath for 4 years. Then think about the fact that you are more likely to need a transplant then you are to become a donor. Then read that last fact again. Then think about this: 90% of the population support organ donation, only 25% are on the organ donor register
.So this holiday season, do something generous and sign up to the donor registry here. It is a great way to show goodwill towards your fellow man and woman and it's free (a bonus in these trying times!)
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