Transplant Australia was asked to provide a comment on ABC Radio following the tragic passing of Charlie Stevens in South Australia and the public statement by his family to encourage all Australians to discuss organ donation.
Here is the statement.
‘412 families in Australia this year who have so far made one of the most beautiful and important decisions they can make – to donate the organs of their loved one and to give the gift of life.
‘It is a wonderful gift but we recognise it comes with heartache and pain and our hearts go out to the Commissioner’s family, Charlie’s friends and loved ones.
‘Organ donation invariably occurs in tragic circumstances – we can never forget the human element of the loss of life.
‘Of course, it is not appropriate to comment on this case – now is not the time. It’s about that family and them receiving all the support they need.
‘It is important to recognise that these conversations and decisions around a hospital bedside are somewhat easier for the family if you have registered to be a donor and informed your family.
‘In SA 72 per cent of adults have indeed done that – the highest in the country.
‘We should all think of how we could make it easier for our family to make that final decision at that difficult time. Have the conversation. Please consider registering as an organ and tissue donor.
‘SA has been a leader in consent rates and registration rates for 10 years – last year there were 39 donors in SA with 98 transplant recipients – thank you to those donors and their families – they have made a world of difference.’
Visit www.donatelife.gov.au to find out more.
Chris Thomas
CEO, Transplant Australia
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